1 min
An early Scott Malone goal gave Millwall a crucial 1-0 win over Huddersfield Town at the John Smith’s Stadium.
The decisive goal came as early as the fourth minute as Danny McNamara curled a low ball into the Huddersfield box that evaded everyone apart from Malone at the back post.
It took the hosts seven minutes to even enter Millwall’s half but when they did they immediately earned a penalty as Lewis O’Brien was fouled in the box with Frazier Campbell blasting the spot-kick against the bar.
Millwall regained composure and Ryan Leonard could have doubled their advantage only to see his long range effort go wide.
At the other end Juninho Bacuna and Danny Ward went close with the latter forcing a good save from Bart Bialkowski in the Lions goal.
The second-half saw Leonard have a goal disallowed for offside while Naby Sarr was unable to turn Bacuna’s effort goalwards as Huddersfield pressed for an equaliser.
And as torrential rain saw the pitch become heavier, affecting both sides’ ability to play, Millwall held out for a hard-fought win.
Key Points
Check out all the key talking points and reaction from London Football Scene below…
Key Moment
Huddersfield’s missed penalty – it would have been interesting to see how Millwall responded if Frazier Campbell had been able to convert.
Moan of the Match
The heavy pitch took effect in the final 15 minutes, with a lot of possession given away due to passes falling short.
Talking Point
Millwall targeted their attacks down both flanks to exploit the gaps created by Huddersfield playing a back three. It worked well but would it have the same effect against a side playing 4-4-2?
Man of the Match
Jed Wallace – combined well with Danny McNamara down the right and was a persistent menace with his positive runs.
Tweet of the Match
Referee Watch
Peter Bankes (Merseyside) – no arguments with the penalty award, however Ryan Leonard’s disallowed Millwall goal warranted a second look.
Atmosphere
Being located behind the director’s seating made for a good localised atmosphere, with both teams’ representatives acting almost fan-like.
Verdict
A solid, confident performance by Millwall who had a game plan that worked with a clean sheet away from home also a welcome bonus.
