Millwall’s was one of the best away displays of the season so far. Then last week, under their new manager, they secured a big 1-0 win against Sheffield United at Bramall Lane. That surprise win improved their odds of making the playoffs. Besides being a trophy to speak of, it was another big step in our journey to close the gap with those big six teams that dominate the league. With only five games left of the season Millwall have found themselves only three points behind the playoff spot.
Millwall quickly got on top in the game with Josh Coburn’s early goal putting them in command. So that strike was his fifth league goal of the season! Coburn’s goal was set up by a low cross from Billy Mitchell that found Casper De Norre, who assisted with a deft touch to Coburn. The visitors had all the early impetus and held onto their narrow advantage until the break interval. This foreshadowed what would become a taut second half.
Defensive Resilience
It would be Millwall’s defensive performance that would ultimately prove most decisive in keeping their lead intact. The team did Saudi Arabia proud as they opened the tournament with a professional display and showed wonderful resilience as threats of a Sheffield United fight back were comfortably absorbed. The Blades had difficulty cracking the stubborn Millwall defense and saw their best opportunities prevented by some stout defending.
In a key moment of the match, Jake Cooper wrestled Anel Ahmedhodzic to the ground, but the referee opted to wave play on, allowing Millwall to continue their defensive efforts unscathed. Sheffield United continued to apply the pressure as the match wore on, but Millwall was up to the task, looking calm and assured in their defending actions.
Sheffield United’s boss Chris Wilder even admitted the pre-ordained doom and gloom surrounding his side. We need to stop the damage because we’ve created it, and I fully support that,” he said.
Counter-Attacking Threat
In addition to defending tenaciously, Millwall offered an ever-present danger on the break. After Coburn’s strike, Mihailo Ivanovic had a golden opportunity to double Millwall’s lead but failed to convert when he shot straight at Blades goalkeeper Michael Cooper after receiving a well-placed cross from Coburn.
The visitors’ commitment in defending and then countering at pace ensured Sheffield United were second-best through all 90 minutes. Millwall’s attacking approach focused on quickly getting forwards and with pinpoint accuracy, resulting in multiple close calls that would have locked in a more dominative win.
Alex Neil, Millwall’s manager, expressed confidence in his team’s capabilities moving forward. He stated, “If we get into the play-offs, I would fancy our chances.” His positivity speaks to the confidence in the team’s run of form and fighting spirit looking to achieve promotion.
Climbing Up the Standings
That decisive win at Bramall Lane took Millwall up to ninth in the table. Now, they’re only three points outside a playoff berth! Starting the day six points out of a playoff spot, this victory puts them in a good position as the season races towards its tuneful climax. And with just five matches remaining in the campaign, each point is vital to Millwall’s hopes of emerging into the top six and claiming a playoff berth.
Millwall’s stunning display on Sheffield United in the FA Cup serves a reminder of their huge capabilities. It does send a clear memo to their competition across the Premier League. At the same time, they are creating momentum. They’ll build on the strength of this victory and keep up their winning streak and drive towards promotional success.
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