Chesterfield FC suffered a narrow 2-1 defeat away to Rotherham United, a result that leaves them 16th in the League Two table with three points from three games. Manager Paul Cook has reacted strongly to the loss, questioning the negativity he perceived from sections of the travelling support at the New York Stadium.

The Spireites fell behind in the 12th minute to a goal from Fabio Tavares. Ryan Boot kept his side in the contest with a first-half penalty save from Tom Bradshaw. Liam Mandeville appeared to have salvaged a point with a late penalty of his own, but a defensive error allowed veteran Paul Mullin to score a winner for the hosts moments later. The defeat means Chesterfield's record this season stands at one win and two losses, with a goal difference of minus one.

Cook expressed his confusion at the atmosphere generated by some Chesterfield supporters. "I just don’t know where a lot of our supporters’ bad energy is coming from, I’ve got to be honest," the manager said. He suggested the tension was palpable on the pitch, adding it was the first time he had seen his players exhibit fear during a game. Cook stressed the need for patience as new signings are integrated, pointing out the team had five debutants recently and is still building cohesion.

The loss leaves Chesterfield four points behind early leaders Barnet in the League Two title race. The team's form reads as loss-win-loss from their opening fixtures. While possession was dominated by the Spireites at Rotherham, a failure to convert chances proved costly. Cook acknowledged the point they nearly earned would have been fortuitous, but lamented the individual mistake that ultimately cost them.

Several key incidents were highlighted. Boot's penalty save was his third in a row, equalling a club record. Mandeville's successful spot-kick was his first for Chesterfield in over 300 appearances. Tavares, who opened the scoring, had several other clear opportunities to extend Rotherham's lead but was denied. The match marked the first league meeting between the sides at the New York Stadium in 13 years. For a full breakdown of player contributions, visit the club's stats page.

The Spireites will look to respond in their next fixture as they continue to work on their tactical identity under Cook's guidance.