BY OLLY TOMLIN
Millwall have enjoyed a successful season so far, sitting in 6th position, one point shy of 4th placed Watford.
After spending the majority of the season in the top half of the table, the Lions are looking to push on and finish the season strongly. Under the management of Gary Rowlett, the team have been solid defensively, conceding the fewest goals in the division. At the back, Millwall have been marshalled by the likes of Dan McNamara, Murray Wallace, Shaun Hutchinson, and Jake Cooper, who have all put in solid performances this campaign. The experienced George Long has been reliable in goal, making important saves when necessary.
This Saturday, Millwall will face one of their toughest tests of the season so far, as they travel to Middlesbrough. Middlesbrough have been impressive this season, and have the quality up front to cause Millwall problems. Chuba Akpom has been their stand-out performer, netting 13 goals in all competitions. Akpom will be a major threat to the Millwall defence, and they will need to be aware of his movement in order to limit the chances he has to score.
When it comes to Millwall’s tactics, Gary Rowlett is likely to set up in a 4-2-3-1 formation. With the ability to move the ball up the field with pace, and the likes of George Honeyman, Zian Flemming, Andreas Voglsammer, Tyler Burey, and Tom Bradshaw at their disposal, I would expect Millwall to try and make Middlesbrough’s back four under constant pressure. George Honeyman has been a crucial member of the Millwall midfield, showcasing his ability to link up play, as well as his long range passing. Zian Flemming has been a very dangerous player for Millwall this season, scoring six goals in all competitions. His ability to find space and take on players makes him a difficult man to handle. Andreas Voglsammer has been a very impressive player for Millwall this season, with five goals and four assists in all competitions. His ability to link up play and create chances for his teammates makes him a vital asset for Millwall. Tyler Burey has been a very important player for Millwall this season, providing energy and creativity in the middle of the park. His ability to drift into space and take on players makes him a difficult man to contain. Lastly, Tom Bradshaw has been a crucial member of the Millwall attack, netting five goals in all competitions. Bradshaw is a very dangerous player in the box, and Millwall will need him to be at his best if they are to get something out of this game.
My prediction for this game is a 1-1 draw, as long as Millwall score first and limit the threat of Akpom in the first half. However, with their away form and Millwall’s tendency to miss big chances often, I can’t see them coming away with more than a point. Overall, this game is going to be a very tricky one for Millwall, but with the quality in their ranks and a good tactical approach, they have every chance of getting something out of this game. It’s certainly one to keep an eye out for, and I’ll be interested to see how Millwall approach the game.
Millwall fans will be eagerly anticipating the outcome of this Saturday’s match against Middlesbrough and will be hoping for a positive result. With their defensive solidity, the Lions have a great chance to come away with a point, but will need to be at their best to do so. It will be interesting to see how Gary Rowett sets his side up, and whether they can produce the goods to get something out of this game. With both teams looking for the win, this match-up is set to be an intriguing encounter. Millwall must look to limit the influence of Chuba Akpom, whilst their own attack must be at their clinical best if they are to get anything out of this game. I’m sure Millwall fans will be eagerly awaiting the result come Saturday.
Image: Millwall FC