MATCH REPORT I Disappointment for Millers as League Cup run ends in controversial defeat

Arnold Eagles 2-0 Rotherham United

IT was another frustrating day at the office – but for very different reasons than last time out.

While last Sunday saw Rotherham United Women overcome by a slick Doncaster Rovers side from a tier above the County Cup, they were left cursing their own finishing and some questionable refereeing decisions in a 2-0 defeat at Arnold Eagles as their League Cup challenge came to a premature end.

A hatful of chances went begging in each half, while midfielder Lauren Brogan – switched to central defence for the today – came closest when she was smartly denied by home keeper Emma Hallam.

Rotherham created a string of openings but couldn’t find the finish, while Eagles prospered from two set pieces, Fiona Plumb and Demi-Leigh Crofts heading home from a corner and a free kick respectively.

No fewer than three Millers were sin-binned for dissent following hotly-contested calls.

The man in black, made a series of controversial decisions, including overruling his assistants on at least three debatable offsides, the last of which saw hopes of a late rally snuffed out as substitute Jess Jones’ tap-in from Essa’s cross was disallowed.

Georgia Ward kept the Millers in the match with a couple of smart stops, including denying the marauding Natasha Leach after what appeared a clear foul on Brogan.

But forwards Jessie Broadhurst and Milly Colford couldn’t capitalise, each missing the target with presentable chances.

With Pete Jarvis’ side’s interest in the League Cup ended, they now look ahead to an FA Cup tie against Dronfield Town next Sunday.

Millers: Georgia Ward, Dina Sarayreh, Lori-Anne Tart, Sidni Simmons, Lauren Brogan, Halima Essa, Mia McDonald, Abbie Staples, Lauren Winter, Jessie Broadhurst, Caitlin O’Callaghan.

Subs: Molly Corke, Rachel Hale, Maddy Wilson, Jess Jones, Milly Colford.

Player of the match: Milly Colford.