Pools can hold their heads high however after playing their part in a pulsating Papa John’s Trophy semi-final tie.
Twice Graeme Lee’s side took the lead on the night only for Rotherham United to peg them back.
Joe Grey gave Pools the lead on the half hour before Michael Smith levelled the scores just after the break for the League One leaders.
And it was Smith on hand again for the Millers as he cancelled out Luke Molyneux’s strike.
With neither side able to find a winner it meant the tie would be decided on penalties.
And Pools were first to blink when the in-form Molyneux saw his kick saved by Viktor Johannson before Ben Killip denied Ben Wiles.
But after Omar Bogle and Angus Macdonald both converted, Tom Crawford missed for Pools to allow Mickel Miller to send Rotherham to Wembley.
And here is how Pools were rated.
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1. Nicholas Bilokapic - 7
Calm and composed first half and made a big save early in the second. Few shaky moments with distribution but a solid home debut from the teenager all told. Picture by FRANK REID Photo: Frank Reid
2. Jamie Sterry - 6
Did ok. Was a decent threat in the first half. Exposed once or twice in the second half as Port Vale doubled up before being forced off with injury. (Credit: Mark Fletcher | MI News) Photo: Mark Fletcher
3. Neill Byrne - 6
Key block in the first half to deny Wilson. Booked in the second. (Credit: Mark Fletcher) Photo: Mark Fletcher
4. Gary Liddle - 8
One sloppy pass in the first half not enough to take away from what was an excellent display. Headed and blocked anything that came his way. (Credit: Will Matthews | MI News) Photo: Will Matthews