Positives in derby defeat for Rotherham United boss

Ryan Williams and Kyle Vassell keep an eye on the ball at Elland Road. Picture: STEVE METTAM

MANAGER Paul Warne says there is more to come from his Rotherham United team this season despite their setback at Elland Road.

The boss saw his tactics to keep the in-form hosts in check work a treat in the first half. Leeds were frustrated in front of goal and also lucky not to be picked off on the break, surviving a huge scare when Jon Taylor hit the post.

Rotherham’s second-half decline disappointed Warne but he took enough positives from the 2-0 defeat to head home with optimism.

“In the first half we were excellent and had the best chances to score but at this level you have to take them because there aren’t that many in the game,” he said.

“A lot of people were expecting to turn up and see Leeds give us a thumping. It definitely wasn’t that. I asked the lads to surprise people and stand up and be counted and I think even the Leeds fans will say we were better than they thought we would be.

“The lads have got to take credit but I still think there is more to come from them and we will do everything we can to get it out of them.”

Warne said he hadn’t thought Luke Ayling’s opening goal just after half time should have stood until modern technology showed his effort had in fact crossed the line. Skipper Richard Wood also claimed he was pushed in the corner that led to the goal.

Kemar Roofe’s 71st minute effort put the home team just about out of reach and Warne ultimately had no qualms with the outcome.

“We didn’t have enough of a threat on goal in the second half,” he added. “We dropped too deep.

“I’ve spent 15 minutes with the lads, telling them how great they can be. They were excellent in periods and more than competitive but they have to keep their standards up because when we come away from home we need to pick up points.”

Leeds now have three Championship wins out of three under new coach Marcelo Bielsa while Rotherham have lost two of their opening three. They have a chance to put points on the board from two successive home games, against Hull on Tuesday and Millwall next Sunday.