Four takeaways from Millwall’s 1-1 draw against Blackburn Rovers – as Wallace and Ballard continue to impress
Millwall were forced to settle for a point at the Den after a 1-1 draw with Blackburn Rovers.
Jed Wallace stabbed home his second goal of the season on the hour mark before Ben Brereton Diaz headed Rovers level in the 76th minute.
JED STILL DELIVERS
Wallace is so often Millwall’s star man, but before poking home in the 64th minute to break the deadlock, had been anonymous against Blackburn.
Despite his quiet afternoon, Wallace showed once again just how pivotal he is to this Millwall side.
Just like last season, much of Millwall’s aspirations to push for promotion will depend on others pitching in around him.
It’s still early enough this term for that not to be a concern, but Wallace’s return of two goals in two games is encouraging despite an off-key display.
BALLARD ADDS AN EDGE
Dan Ballard continued his impressive start to life in a Lions shirt with a composed display on the right-hand side of the Millwall defence.
The Northern Ireland international showed good confidence in possession, regularly advancing the Lions up the pitch with a silky swagger.
It was Ballard’s sweet diagonal pass which found Malone in the build-up to Millwall’s opening goal.
It’s very early days but Ballard looks capable of adding an extra dimension to the Lions play on the right-hand side.
His strong start to life in SE16 will be a welcome boost for Gary Rowett with the ever-dependable Shaun Hutchinson set for a spell on the sidelines.
BIG BEN STILL WAITING TO STRIKE
Benik Afobe is still waiting for his first goal in a Lions shirt, but the early sighters of the on-loan Stoke man look promising.
The striker took up several good positions in and around the edge of the Blackburn box, particularly in the first half, and was always on the move to try and offer a positive option.
His team-mates failed to play the ball into his path though, with the striker looking for the ball to be played into his feet rather than above his chest.
The Lions new-look attack will take time to mesh and strike up an understanding though.
Afobe was still a constant menace to the Rovers backline all afternoon and already looks a cut above the Lions loan forwards from last term.
DEJA VU
The Lions have now surrendered a lead in both of their league games this season.
After being pegged back by QPR last weekend, Brereton Diaz powered home a soft free-kick to draw the visitor’s level.
Lions boss Rowett will be left frustrated at giving a goal away from a set-piece – especially as the visitors rarely threatened Bart Bialkowski’s goal all afternoon.
Millwall racked up 17 clean sheets last term and will be desperate to register their maiden one this season as soon as possible.
