Manager Neil Harris was a happy man on the opening day of the League One season as we beat newly promoted Shrewsbury Town two one on Saturday.
Audio – Harris On Perfect Start
Speaking to the official site with goals coming from Steve Morison and Lee Gregory on the day to give us victory, Harris was clearly pleased with what he saw from his new look Millwall side.
‘To get a win in that game, on the opening day, gives us a lot of belief for the season. We knew this would be one of the toughest games we could have had first up. But I knew that the boys were ready, and they showed that today. Apart from maybe a quiet 15 minute spell, I felt we were outstanding. We controlled the game and I am delighted for our two goal-scorers.’
Harris went on to say that Morison having joined up late with us in terms of pre season training had been given a really intense week on the training pitches to get him as sharp as possible ahead of the game, so he felt he did really well with his performance and the way he led the line on the day.
‘With Lee Gregory we’ve put an expectation on his shoulders to score goals also, so for him to get off the mark is really pleasing.’
There was also delight from the defensive display we put in as Shrewsbury clearly have talent up front.
‘Defensively I thought we were excellent. We really stood up to the challenge of their wide players and their presence up front. We were immense with that and I thought our two centre-halves were outstanding. The whole performance gives us a benchmark for the season. We were disappointed to go behind, but our response was right. The way that we managed the game, certainly in the last 10 minutes, was outstanding. Having people like Tony Craig and Byron Webster, and Shaun Williams in the middle of the park to organise and see the game out, was a big bonus for us.’
Ending his interview, Harris was also full or praise for youngster Fred Onyedinma, who assisted for Morison’s goal as well as playing his part in helping to earn the penalty that led to our second.
‘Fred’s game management was exactly how we know it can be. I like the way he gets the ball, looks up and likes to go on the attack. He could have had a goal himself in the first-half when he cut in from the right, but was unlucky that the keeper made a great save. He is one of a number of promising youngsters we have at the club and they will all get their chance to play their part this season.’
Vital Millwall on:
Vital Millwall on:
Harris Thrilled With Outstanding Shrewsbury Win
