QPR boss Beale has praise for Millwall’s ‘very emotional’ tribute to Queen Elizabeth II

QPR manager Mick Beale praised Millwall for their tribute to Queen Elizabeth II before tonight’s derby at The Den.

Second-half goals from Chris Willock and Stefan Johansen gave the R’s all three points in SE16.

Supporters observed a minute’s silence before kick off with the national anthem performed live by local opera singer Jay Britton.

Beale said: “Fair play to Millwall, and the organisation beforehand, because it was very emotional.

“It was fantastic and the game started with that energy. We knew it would, we needed to get through the first 15 minutes or so. Then we could start to play, we were good tonight. From the middle of the second half they won corner and we defended it very well.

“It’s a shame there’s only one London derby in the Championship this year.

“It’s a difficult place to come, The Den.

“Ethan Laird and Kenneth Paal had to defend the box, they had to do the dirty bits.

“We’ve got a really young team that like to play with the ball and I’m trying to instill a little bit of grit, togetherness, cohesion and defensive organisation.

“At the previous clubs I’ve worked at, I’ve always prided myself on clean sheets. I’ve been frustrated not having one, and it’s long overdue.”