Steve Evans reveals honest post-Barnsley action after "hurtful" Rotherham United situation | OneFootball

Rotherham United are out for revenge - and their first win over their rivals in 42 years - this weekend

Rotherham United boss Steve Evans admitted he “shed a few tears” after his side received pelters from fans following their previous defeat to upcoming opponents Barnsley.

Back in November, Rotherham travelled to neighbours Barnsley, only to lose 2-0 to the Tykes.

The manner of the Millers’ performance left travelling supporters less than impressed, Rotherham fans voicing their discontent to their team after the final whistle.

Steve Evans had quiet cry after criticism received following Barnsley defeat

Evans is one of the most experienced managers in the EFL, having managed well over 1,000 games across England’s top five tiers and various cup competitions.

Whilst stressing that some of the comments received following the loss to Barnsley had crossed the line, Evans admitted that his side’s performance against a local rival had been totally sub-par.

Evans will hope to draw on that painful experience as motivation against a Yorkshire rival without a win in their last six games.

Barnsley’s latest result was a defeat at home in another Yorkshire derby, with Huddersfield running out 2-1 winners at Oakwell last weekend.

Speaking ahead of Saturday’s clash with Barnsley, Evans shared via the Rotherham Advertiser: “I'm an experienced manager and I don't think there are many times when I've gone home and sat quietly in the lounge, after my family's gone to bed, and shed some tears.

“I did after Barnsley. No-one is saying some of it wasn't deserved, but there were some really hurtful comments to all of us.

“Reviewing the performance, we did deserve to be heavily criticised.”

Steve Evans well aware of Rotherham’s wait for win against Barnsley

But there may be more tears in store for Evans and Rotherham supporters, with the Millers without a competitive victory over their Yorkshire rivals in over 42 years.

Since their last victory over Barnsley during the 1982/83 season, Rotherham have faced the Tykes 12 times – with their best result being a 1-1 draw, achieved on three occasions.

Evans similarly does not enjoy a good record against Barnsley, having lost four times in five meetings with various clubs.

However, he did manage to lead previous club Stevenage to a 2-1 win over the Tykes last season.

Overall, Evans’ record in Yorkshire derbies is not too convincing, having won 14 out of a possible 36.

For now, Evans’ focus is on leading Rotherham back to winning ways following a run of five games without a win.

The Glaswegian is expecting a feisty atmosphere at the New York Stadium for Saturday’s lunchtime kick-off, with Evans well aware of Rotherham’s drought against Barnsley.

Evans restarted: “It's a chance to get back on track.

“Everyone loves a derby. Barnsley are a good club with big travelling support.

“We'll have big support as well.

“This game means a little bit more because it's October 1982 since we last beat them.”

Rotherham’s season has stalled since entering February, currently marooned in the middle of the League One table.

Occupying 14th in the third tier, Evans’ charges are nine points off the relegation zone, but trail the play-offs by 15 points with 15 games of the League One season remaining.