Rotherham United boss Paul Warne applauds Joshua Kayode for his ‘big boy’ contribution in victory over AFC Wimbledon

Rotherham United manager Paul Warne heaped praise on Joshua Kayode after the 21-year-old’s first league goal for the Millers earned all three points in a 1-0 win at AFC Wimbledon.

The victory puts Rotherham nine points clear at the top of the table after their South Yorkshire rivals Sheffield Wednesday defeated second-placed Wigan Athletic 1-0 at Hillsborough.

Will Grigg thought he had put United ahead in the first half but his header was ruled offside.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The winning goal came in the second half when the Millers' Irish contingent combined as Chiedozie Ogbene’s cross was met by Kayode, who slotted the ball in the bottom right corner.

Warne singled out the matchwinner for praise afterwards, as his goal kept Rotherham on course for an immediate return to the second tier.

“I’m over the moon for him [Kayode] – he’s got his first big boy goal. There’s no better feeling as a striker, to get the winner in a 1-0 win," said Warne.

“It’s very difficult to get in this team, it takes a lot of hard work, but he’s come on and got his goal.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“He’s a goal threat, and although we spend a lot of time shouting at him he is improving. He’s a very popular figure in the dressing room and we’re happy for him."

HIGH PRAISE: For Joshua Kayode, right, from Rotherham manager Paul Warne. Picture: PA Wire.HIGH PRAISE: For Joshua Kayode, right, from Rotherham manager Paul Warne. Picture: PA Wire.
HIGH PRAISE: For Joshua Kayode, right, from Rotherham manager Paul Warne. Picture: PA Wire.

Warne felt his side deserved the win, continuing: “We were trying to win the game from the outset, draws are no good to us and we’re trying to grab every game by the throat. I thought we created enough chances to win and deserved it.

“They’re a really well-organised team and they defend set pieces very well. It was my big fear, because every time we had a set piece the keeper came for it and then they attacked at pace, but I’m really pleased we kept a clean sheet.”