Barnsley 2 Millwall 1 – Lions’ nine-game unbeaten run comes to an end after Oakwell reverse

BY ALEX GRACE

Millwall’s nine-game unbeaten run came to an end after a 2-1 defeat against Barnsley at Oakwell

Barnsley took the lead after just two minutes. Alex Mowatt’s free-kick deflected off a couple of Millwall players before falling to Cauley Woodrow, who finished past Bart Bialkowski.

That lead was short-lived, as four minutes later the Lions were level. Jed Wallace’s ball found Mason Bennett, who carried the ball forward and finished low into the far corner to bring the Lions level.

The home side certainly had the best of the game as Mowatt and Carlton Morris both went close. They also forced six first-half corners but failed to get themselves in front before the break, much to the frustration of their head coach Valerien Ismael . He had to be calmed down by referee Leigh Doughty.

Bennett went close to doubling his tally for the afternoon at the start of the second half. Shaun Williams crossed but he headed it  straight at Brad Collins.

Mowatt went close with a free-kick that forced Bialkowski into a smart save, the Poland goalkeeper then had to be alert once more to stop Callum Britain’s effort from outside the box.

Barnsley got their second goal in the 59th minute. The Lions dealt with the original corner but another cross came into the box which was headed on by Mads Andersen to Michal Helik – his volley left Bialkowksi with no chance.

Bialkowski made another superb stop to keep out Morris’ header from a Mowatt free-kick as the hosts looked to wrap up the points.

Gary Rowett introduced Jon Dadi Bodvarsson, Shane Ferguson, Tyler Burey and Tom Bradshaw but the Lions couldn’t find an equalising goal.

PICTURES: SEAN GOSLING