Rotherham United Terminates Steve Evans' Contract After Humiliating Crawley Defeat - League One Crisis Deepens

Rotherham's Drastic Decision Following Poor Form

Rotherham United has made the decisive move to dismiss manager Steve Evans after Saturday's crushing 4-0 home defeat against relegation-battling Crawley Town. The humiliating loss at New York Stadium proved to be the final straw for Evans' second stint with the Millers, ending his tenure just under a year after returning to the club.

Performance Crisis Triggers Change

The Scottish manager, 62, had come under increasing pressure following a dismal run of seven defeats in their last eleven League One fixtures. The recent poor form saw Rotherham slide to 16th position, a mere nine points above the relegation zone in England's third tier. Club officials confirmed the departure in an official statement on Sunday, with Evans' coaching staff Paul Raynor, Gary Mills and Ian Pledger also leaving.

Interim Management Appointment

Former Rotherham coach Matt Hamshaw, who recently served as Derby County's caretaker manager, has been tasked with steering the ship until season's end. He'll be assisted by Andy Warrington as the club seeks stability during this transitional period.

Evans' Emotional Farewell

Speaking to BBC Radio Sheffield after the Crawley debacle, an emotional Evans acknowledged: "There's no hiding place when you have a performance like that. The performance was limp, way off the minimum standards we expect. Everything that my teams have been famous for was not deployed." He added, visibly shaken: "I think this is as low as it's been in 31 years as a manager."

Historical Context and Legacy

Evans first made his mark at Rotherham between 2012-2015, achieving back-to-back promotions and consolidating the club's Championship status. His second spell, beginning in April 2023 after their relegation was confirmed, failed to recapture that earlier magic. The Millers currently sit mid-table with little hope of mounting a promotion push.

Managerial Career Overview

The Glaswegian's extensive managerial journey includes spells at:

• Leeds United (2015-16)
• Mansfield Town (2016-18)
• Peterborough United (2018-19)
• Gillingham (2019-22)
• Stevenage (2022-23, achieving League Two promotion)

Fan Reaction and Next Steps

New York Stadium witnessed rare displays of dissent from supporters during Saturday's humiliation, with audible calls for Evans' dismissal. The club now faces important decisions regarding their long-term managerial direction while Hamshaw works to steady the squad for their remaining fixtures.

League One Implications

This managerial change comes during a crucial period of the season, with Rotherham needing to secure their League One status while planning for next campaign. The Millers' next match against promotion-chasing Bolton Wanderers will serve as the first test for interim boss Hamshaw.