Rotherham United: Paul Warne toasts 'sweeter' Christmas after last gasp win at Shrewsbury

The Millers, who have been playing with a patched up side in recent weeks, looked like they had to settle for a point in Shropshire after Joe Mattock's opener was cancelled out by Aaron Pierre's leveller.

But they proved there is no better way to win a game than a goal right at the death, and Michael Smith's smart header from a recycled dead ball was right at the death – clocked at the 97th minute.

It was a memorable moment for Smith, who has found himself benched in recent weeks and the 987 Millers fans who made the trip to the New Meadow.

“Smudge has been frustrated at times but to score that goal right in front of the fans makes Christmas a little bit sweeter,” Warne said.

“You have to give the lads credit, as there were some really good performances.

“I thought we were pretty good. I thought we started the game really well and I thought we were the dominant team.

“I think we created the most chances and on another day, Freddie (Ladapo) may have had a couple. Crooksey (Matt Crooks) had one when he maybe should have scored but he didn’t get hold of it.

“I thought we created enough chances to win the game.

“We had a lot of the play but we did not create enough. When we scored our goal, I thought we may win the game more handsomely, but I’m delighted to win the game late on.”

For Mattock, the joy of scoring his first goal of the season was tempered by being forced off with a recurring back injury.

Warne does not know the extent of it, but he will surely be a doubt for Sunday's ding-dong battle with promotion rivals Peterborough.

“Joe may be in less pain as we’ve won the game,” Warne said. “I’m not sure how severe his injury is.

“The goal was good for Joe. I’ve always been wax lyrical about him since I’ve been at the club. He’s brilliant and he can play.

“To get a goal, in front of the away following, who were great today, is good for him.”