Steve Evans has claimed that his Rotherham United side were victims of the worst refereeing decision that he has ever seen in their 2-1 defeat to Birmingham City.

The Millers boss is adamant that his side should have had a penalty at St Andrew's this afternoon when striker Matt Derbyshire was brought down by Rob Kiernan.

Evans lamented his side's luck in the immediate aftermath of a loss which leaves Rotherham only four points clear of relegation, and is now even more furious having seen replays of an incident which he believes is evidence of a conspiracy against the club.

"It was the worst refereeing decision I've ever seen," he told reporters. "You might as well get a 12-year-old who has blue blood in his veins to come and referee.

"We have just seen the DVD. It is as nailed on as they come. It's a penalty and a red card. If you don't give them then you might as well give the game up. I'm not questioning the integrity of Dean Whitestone, I'm just saying he was atrocious today. You can write that in capitals for the Football League.

"Certain people don't want us in the Championship. We have a lot of respect for the people at Birmingham City but the place went silent when Matt went down. Everyone knows we should have been given it. Every point is precious. If they go down to 10 men I think we beat them."

Rotherham, who gained promotion via the League One playoffs last season, return to action on Monday when they host Brighton & Hove Albion.