Rotherham 2 Morecambe 1: Nardiello transforms perspective for Millers

Ex-Rotherham winger Kevin Ellison rocked the home side as he snatched the lead for Morecambe but Nardiello hit two in two minutes to seal the win.

Rotherham produced some sharp approach work early on but Iceland international Kari Arnason dragged a shot wide after a Lee Frecklington effort was blocked.

Arnason closed in for another effort but his thumping 20-yard effort was deflected and Barry Roche produced a fine save.

Morecambe were dangerous on the break. Will Haining had two attempts after a long-range free-kick was blocked and Jack Redshaw was close with a low effort from a tight angle.

After a Rotherham corner Morecambe’s Jack Redshaw ran from deep in his own half with former Millers winger Kevin Ellison alongside to ram home a low shot as the home defence were left stranded. The Millers might have levelled just before the break when Lionel Ainsworth crossed low but Alex Revell’s first-time shot was just wide.

But Nardiello overturned Morecambe’s advantage with a double strike taking his tally to five so far. His first came when he snapped in a close range shot after a cross from Arnason took a wicked deflection, deceived the keeper and fell for him. A minute later Nardiello was perfectly placed to ram home his second after a Bob Harris cross.

Rotherham: Warrington, Tonge, Sharps, Morgan, Harris, Ainsworth, Arnason, Frecklington, Pringle (Agard 90), Revell, Nardiello (Odejayi 88). Unused substitutes: Thompson, Taylor, O’Connor, Evans, Bradley.

Morecambe: Roche, Fenton, McCready (Reid 75), Haining, Wright, Drummond, Fleming, McDonald, Mustoe, Redshaw (Burrow 70), Ellison. Unused substitutes: Arestidou, Parkinson, McGee, Parrish, Doyle.

Referee: G Sutton (Lincolnshire).