Rotherham United: Player ratings from the Bristol City clash

The Star's Millers man, Paul Davis, assesses the performances at Ashton Gate.
Semi Ajayi impressed against Tammy AbrahamSemi Ajayi impressed against Tammy Abraham
Semi Ajayi impressed against Tammy Abraham

ROTHERHAM (4-1-4-1)

RICHARD O’DONNELL 7

Four matches into his Rotherham United career, the goalkeeper is looking more assured with every passing game. Two cracking saves.

STEPHEN KELLY 6

The legs aren’t what they once were, but a solid show from the experienced right-back.

SEMI AJAYI 7

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Won his battle with Tammy Abraham. A little raw at times, but a big, mobile, powerful presence in only his second Championship game.

RICHARD WOOD 6

More wholehearted defending, although a ragged clearance set in motion the events that led to Bristol City’s goal.

BEN PURRINGTON 7

A big test in his first second-tier outing against David Cotterill and came through it with flying colours.

RICHIE SMALLWOOD 7

The usual. Diligent, disciplined and often the man to break up the home side’s attacks.

ANTHONY FORDE 6

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More of an attacking influence than in recent games, plus the high workrate we’ve come to expect.

WILL VAULKS 6

Never a lack of effort with this man. Needs to be more careful with the ball near his own penalty box.

JOE NEWELL 7

The Millers’ biggest threat. Would have been an 8 had he maintained his first-half standards to the end.

JOE MATTOCK 6

Adapted well to an unfamiliar midfield role. Was blowing a bit by the time he came off, mind!

DANNY WARD 5

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Maybe all the transfer speculation has had an effect. Missed a good chance and not at his best.

SUBSTITUTES:

JERRY YATES 5

On in the 63rd minute for Joe Mattock but was unable to make a mark.

JON TAYLOR 6

Added attacking thrust when he replaced Anthony Forde on 68 minutes but his crossing was wayward.

DEXTER BLACKSTOCK

An 86th-minute replacement for Stephen Kelly.

Subs not used: Bilboe, Allan, Bray, Warren.

Bristol City (4-2-3-1): Giefer 6; Little 6 (Paterson 58, 6), Wright 6, Flint 7, Golbourne 6; Hegeler 7, Pack 6; Cotterill 6, Tomlin 5 (Taylor 58, 5), Bryan 6; Abraham 5 (Djuric 58, 6). Subs not used: Fielding, Vyner, Brownhill, O’Dowda.

Referee: Peter Bankes (Merseyside) 9.

Attendance: 18,737 (210).