Millwall boss Neil Harris was keen to make a point after seeing his relegation strugglers upset the form book to beat leaders Leicester City.
A stunning Ryan Longman strike condemned the Foxes to a 1-0 defeat at the New Den and left manager Enzo Maresca bemoaning the ups and downs of the Championship as the season reaches its climax. But Harris was quick to dispel any notion that Leicester were unlucky to lose on Tuesday night.
In a post-match interview, Harris emphasized the hard work and determination of his players, highlighting their commitment to the cause and the tactical discipline they displayed against a formidable opponent.
But Harris was quick to dispel any notion that Leicester were unlucky to lose on Tuesday night. He said: “It was an excellent Millwall performance. We scored a goal that was worthy of winning any game of football. And the shape and discipline of the team was as good as any I’ve put on the pitch here at the Den.
“Leicester might say they deserved a point from creating the chances they did – three chances in 88, 90 and 94, whatever it was – but we could’ve won 7-1 at Rotherham. We could say Michael Obafemi had a one-on-one second half and we had chances in the first half to score.
“To play against arguably the best team in the league and limit them to very little was so impressive by this group.”
As the final stages of the season approach, every point becomes crucial for teams fighting for survival or aiming for promotion. Harris acknowledged the challenges his team has faced throughout the campaign but remained optimistic about their prospects in the remaining matches.
Their first win in five has lifted them four points clear of the relegation zone, but Harris insisted there was still plenty of work to do. He added: “Firstly, it’s so Millwall-like to lose to Rotherham and Huddersfield, both in the last minute, and then beat the league leaders.
“That’s what this club does. Not just this group, the last 30 years of Millwall Football Club, but we’re moving in the right direction. What I’m seeing in the group is a lot of positives.”
“I’m delighted because it has been a tough week for all of us. It’s been a tough week for the football club and the fanbase. I could sense a little bit of nervous anticipation and fear probably coming back into the football club.
“I said to the group yesterday that I’ve not got time for that or come here for that. I’ve come back to try and galvanise and support at The Den when everybody was telling me they can’t play at The Den. Go on – go show me. And they have answered that criticism again.”
Meanwhile, Leicester City boss Enzo Maresca admitted his disappointment at the result but credited Millwall for their performance.
“Football is unpredictable, and today we experienced that firsthand,” said Maresca, whose side suffered a setback in their quest for the Championship title. The defeat served as a reminder of the competitiveness of the league and the need for consistency in performances.
Despite the loss, Maresca expressed confidence in his team’s ability to bounce back and finish the season strongly.
“We have a talented group of players who are capable of responding to this setback,” he said, emphasizing the importance of staying focused and maintaining belief in their abilities. With crucial fixtures ahead, Leicester will be aiming to regain their winning form and secure their position at the top of the table.
The Championship has once again proven to be a highly unpredictable and competitive league, with surprises and upsets occurring regularly. Millwall’s victory over Leicester City exemplified the unpredictable nature of the sport and the potential for any team to defy the odds on a given day.
As the season approaches its climax, the battle for promotion, playoff spots, and survival promises to deliver excitement and drama until the final whistle.