Rotherham United Fall to Sheffield United in Pre-Season Test

Rotherham United's unbeaten run came to an end as they suffered a 2-0 defeat at the hands of Sheffield United in a pre-season friendly at AESSEAL New York Stadium.

The Millers had been on a four-match winning streak, but they were no match for the Blades, who dominated the game from start to finish. Sheffield United's first goal came in the 43rd minute, courtesy of Tahith Chong's deft finish. Ted Cann denied him another goal with a save just seconds before the break.

The home side had a burst of attacking activity within minutes of the restart, with Ar'Jany Martha having a shot blocked before Jamie Jellis's deflected effort from outside the area was tipped on to the bar by Michael Cooper. Yet Chris Wilder's side went further ahead on 53 minutes when Callum O'Hare's found the far corner with a sweet 20-yarder.

Jellis was looking really good and his quick feet opened up a 69th-minute opportunity. His run and jink was followed by a superb strike that beat Cooper only to smack the woodwork. Rotherham were more of an attacking threat in the second half without managing to make a breakthrough.

It was a worthwhile workout, and a loss against loftier opponents brought no shame. Jellis's contribution, meanwhile, was a reason for optimism.

What Happened?

Rotherham United's first defeat of the summer came at the hands of Sheffield United in a pre-season friendly.

Why It Matters for Rotherham

The Millers' performance was a mixed bag, with some players impressing while others struggled to make an impact.

What Comes Next?

Rotherham United will look to bounce back from this defeat in their next pre-season friendly, but they will need to improve their performance if they are to compete with the likes of Sheffield United.

Rotherham United (4-2-3-1): Ted Cann; Joe Rafferty, Sonny Aljofree (Trialist A), Emmanuel Adegboyega, Kyle McAdam (Trialist B); Ossama Ashley, Jamie Jellis; Aaron Nemane, Jez Davies (Trialist C), Ar'Jany Martha; Fabio Tavares. Subs: Jake Turner (Trialist D), Denzel Hall, Lenny Agbaire, Marvin Kaleta, Kian Spence, James Clarke, Brandon Cover, Cohen Lee, Dean Gardner, Lewis Clarke, Ewan Otoo (Trialist E), Bruce Anderson (Trialist F).