Rotherham United is set to face Argyle on Saturday, December 13, at 3 PM in a Sky Bet League One matchup. This encounter promises excitement as both teams have had varying fortunes this season.
Match Preview: Rotherham United vs Argyle
Recent Performance of Rotherham United
Rotherham United started their season strong with a victory over Port Vale. However, the team faced challenges, losing three out of their next four matches, including a home draw against Wigan. A 1-0 win against Exeter provided a brief respite, but the club experienced a tough stretch that ended in September with back-to-back defeats.
Entering October, Rotherham managed a draw against Bradford City, which was the catalyst for a nine-match unbeaten streak. This included three consecutive triumphs away against Northampton Town and Barnsley, plus a home victory over Leyton Orient. They secured a commendable win of 3-0 against Lincoln City in one of their two subsequent home fixtures. Despite recent setbacks including three draws against Luton Town, Reading, and Wycombe Wanderers, Rotherham suffered a setback with a 3-0 defeat against Blackpool.
Managerial Insights: Matt Hamshaw
The team is guided by 43-year-old manager Matt Hamshaw, a Rotherham native. Hamshaw’s career began with Sheffield Wednesday, where he aided in their promotion to the Championship. After a playing career that saw him at various clubs, he turned to coaching at Rotherham.
Before becoming the head coach, he served as an academy coach, and later as a first-team coach under Paul Warne. After a short stay at Derby County, he returned to Rotherham as interim manager in March before being appointed permanently. Hamshaw has been in charge for eight months and is keen to strengthen Rotherham’s position in the league.
Key Players to Watch
- Denzel Hall: A versatile wing-back playing his first season with Rotherham. He has appeared in 17 matches, scoring three goals. Hall previously played for clubs in the Netherlands before joining Rotherham.
- Joe Powell: The midfielder has logged the most outfield minutes for the team this season. After his tenure with West Ham United and a loan spell at Northampton Town, he signed permanently with Rotherham this season.
- Dan Gore: On loan from Manchester United, Gore has participated in 18 out of 19 league fixtures. He brings valuable experience, having won the FA Youth Cup with United.
Previous Encounters
In their most recent meetings during the 2023/24 season, Argyle defeated Rotherham twice. The first match ended in a thrilling 3-2 victory for Argyle, featuring a dramatic 96th-minute winner from Morgan Whittaker. The second encounter saw Argyle clinch a 1-0 win, courtesy of a goal by Bali Mumba.
Broadcast Information
Fans can catch the game through El-Balad’s Argyle TV coverage, starting with Argyle Breakfast at 10 AM. Pre-match coverage will follow at 2:30 PM, leading up to the live commentary by the commentary team.
Rotherham United is ready to put forth their best performance against Argyle. With a blend of emerging talents and experienced leadership, the match promises to be an exciting contest. Fans can anticipate a thrilling afternoon of football.
