Opinion: Time and Excuses Are Running Out for Rotherham United and Matt Hamshaw
Rotherham United head coach Matt Hamshaw pointed to “individual moments” as the deciding factor in his side’s derby defeat, but looking at the wider context, it is difficult to ignore the worrying direction the club appears to be heading. The problems now seem far deeper than a couple of costly incidents in one match.
The 2–1 defeat to Doncaster Rovers has left the Millers in a troubling league position, one that is becoming increasingly uncomfortable with each passing week. Mathematically, survival is still achievable. With 15 matches remaining and a total of 45 points still up for grabs, there is technically enough time to turn things around. However, mathematics and momentum are two very different things. The real concern is whether there is any convincing evidence to suggest that this team, in its current form, can deliver the level of consistency required to stay up.
Hamshaw chose to focus on the positives from the opening half of the game. He felt his side performed well in the first 45 minutes, showing the intensity and style he wants to see associated with the football club. The early penalty and goal appeared to settle the team, allowing them to dictate play and demonstrate attacking intent. In his view, football matches are often decided by key moments, and unfortunately for Rotherham, two decisive errors in the second half proved costly and ultimately handed victory to their rivals.
While that explanation may hold some truth, it has become a familiar pattern. Promising first halves have repeatedly been followed by disappointing second-half performances. Rotherham have developed an alarming tendency to lose control when momentum shifts. When the same issues occur week after week, it becomes harder to accept them as isolated mistakes. Instead, they begin to point towards deeper structural problems within the team.
Hamshaw did not shy away from acknowledging the significance of the errors that led to defeat. He admitted that two major mistakes were punished — something that cannot happen at any professional level if a team hopes to compete effectively. He also recognised that everyone connected with the club will be concerned about their current league standing. However, he stressed the importance of maintaining positivity and showing the same fight and determination displayed in the first half for the remainder of the season.
Positivity, of course, is important in any relegation battle. Confidence and belief can often make a difference during difficult periods. But optimism alone does not correct recurring weaknesses. When the same defensive lapses, concentration issues, and second-half collapses continue to appear, questions must inevitably be asked about preparation, tactical adjustments, in-game management, and the squad’s mental resilience.
Looking ahead, the fixture list does little to ease concerns. A significant number of the remaining games are against sides pushing for promotion, meaning Rotherham will be facing opponents with strong motivation and quality. In addition, there are difficult away fixtures against fellow relegation candidates — matches that could define the season but will be far from straightforward. Current projections suggest that around 19 points may be required to secure survival. For a team currently collecting points at a rate associated with relegation form, that represents a considerable challenge.
Unsurprisingly, speculation about possible alternatives has begun to circulate. Former manager Matt Taylor has been seen attending matches in a media role, and his relocation back to the Sheffield area has only added to the rumours. Whether or not there is any substance to the talk, its existence reflects growing uncertainty surrounding the current leadership.
Ultimately, this situation cannot be reduced to one disappointing derby defeat. It reflects an entire season that has felt lacking in direction and stability. Rotherham have too often looked like a side reacting to setbacks rather than preventing them. They have struggled to maintain performance levels for a full 90 minutes and have failed to build sustained momentum at any stage of the campaign.
At some point, responsibility shifts beyond unfortunate “moments” and onto leadership and decision-making. Time is no longer a luxury. Rotherham United are rapidly running out of fixtures, and more importantly, running out of justification for patience. If the club’s board truly believes survival is within reach, then decisive action now may offer the only realistic opportunity to spark change. Remaining passive carries a far greater risk — one that could see the Millers slide even further down the football pyramid.
