Rotherham United manager Paul Warne heralded today’s game at Millwall as a vital point gained after a goalless draw at The Den.
The Millers came close to snatching all three points in South Bermondsey with Michael Smith having a shot cleared off the line in the second half, whilst at the other end a late Semi Ajayi challenge did enough to put off Lee Gregory as he went close to a last minute winner for the hosts.
After the game Warne spoke to the assembled press corps, stating a point on the road anywhere in The Championship is always a positive:
“It was a bit marmite, good and bad really," Warne said of the game.
"I think to be fair to the lads we changed our shape completely, we had four centre halves in the team. We knew they were good on set plays, so we tried to nullify that. They put crosses into the box, so defensively it gave us a chance and we could put two up front.
“I didn’t think there was enough bite about us first half. It was a pretty open first half for both teams, devoid of much creativity on a pitch which doesn’t really engage it. I thought that second half we were by far the stronger team.
"There was some really good performances. I was really pleased with Mat Crookes on his Championship debut, the same with Icky (Michael Ihiekwe). I think after the week we have had, to move into February and get a draw on our travels is a good point.
"I think that Millwall are an excellent team. They make it hard for you. They have won five in seven, so they are no mugs, so to come here and get a point will give the lads a massive boost.”
After a first-half devoid of chances, the Millers had their best spell of the game after the interval.
Smith came close on two occasions, whilst Ajayi also fired over as Warne’s side threatened a victory.
"If there would have been a camera on my in the second-half, you would have seen me jumping up and down when the chance fell to Smudge (Michael Smith),” Warne added.
“I was waiting for the net to ripple really, and then there was a mele. I just thought that we had a good size about us today, however because we played that way, we didn't have any wingers to put the ball in, so reluctantly we had two full-backs putting in the set-pieces.
"There were some good performances which makes me really proud. Will Vaulks is virtually irreplaceable for us. I thought he was excellent. Anything that is bouncing in the middle of the pitch, if Will is involved, then you know he is going to win all his headers.
"On the whole we are really pleased with the point on our travels."