Birmingham boosted their survival hopes and dented Rotherham’s as a late winner from Harlee Dean secured a 1-0 win at the New York Stadium on Sunday.
Rotherham carved out decent opportunities for themselves throughout the 90 minutes, despite the Blues’ visit being their fourth game since last Saturday, but failed to take them and were punished late on as a result.
Two minutes from time, a cross from the left flank was helped to the far post by Kristian Pedersen, where Dean leapt to meet it with company from Michael Ihiekwe.
Though Dean was initially credited with the goal, replays suggest it may later be confirmed as an own goal, with Ihiekwe’s touch appearing to take the ball over the line.
A third win in four matches for Lee Bowyer’s men – coupled with a fourth straight clean sheet – moves them nine points clear of the relegation zone, while Rotherham remain in 22nd, albeit with two games in hand over many of the teams around them.
More to follow…
Man of the match – Harlee Dean
Keith Andrews on Sky Sports Football:
“He was heavily involved in the goal after putting Michael Ihiekwe under pressure but he was superb in marshalling that backline as Birmingham knew they were going to get constant pressure and direct balls. The clean sheets are building and that has been the foundation for their success in recent weeks.”
What’s next?
Both sides are next in action on Wednesday, April 21. Rotherham host Middlesbrough at the New York Stadium at 6pm, while Birmingham host Nottingham Forest at 7.45pm. Both matches will be live across Sky Sports.
