Rotherham United secured a 1‑1 stalemate against Derby County at the New York Stadium on 28 July 2026, with Sam Szmodics converting a penalty to level the match after Derby had opened the scoring eight minutes in. The result caps Derby’s pre‑season campaign and leaves Rotherham with a morale‑boosting point ahead of the new League One season, where they finished 2025 in 23rd place with 37 points, 9 wins, 10 draws and 23 losses.
How did the match unfold?
Derby took the lead when Szmodics earned a spot‑kick after being fouled by Emmanuel Adegboyega, then calmly slotted the ball past Ted Cann. Rotherham pressed for an equaliser, but a mis‑communication between Jacob Widell Zetterstrom and Lewis Travis allowed Ossama Ashley to tap in the leveller. Both sides created chances, yet neither could find a winner before the final whistle.
Who stood out for Rotherham?
Bobby Clark impressed early, carving open the defence and setting up the penalty that Szmodics later converted. Lewis Travis showed composure, while Matt Clarke delivered a solid defensive block against Derby’s attacks. Youngster Dajaune Brown provided useful link‑up play on the left flank, hinting at his potential role in the upcoming season.
What does the draw mean for Rotherham’s preparation?
The point offers a confidence boost as Rotherham head into the 2026‑27 League One campaign, still needing to improve after a difficult 2025 season. With a goal difference of –29 (36 scored, 65 conceded) and sitting 56 points behind leaders Lincoln, the club must tighten up at both ends. The next fixture against Port Vale on 9 January 2027 will be a crucial test of progress.
What lies ahead?
Derby now turns its focus to a Carabao Cup tie with Lincoln City, while Rotherham will use the remaining pre‑season fixtures to fine‑tune tactics and integrate new signings. Managerial staff will likely assess defensive lapses, especially the Zetterstrom‑Travis mix‑up, to avoid similar setbacks in league play.
