‘They didn’t realise he is a machine’ – Millwall boss Rowett on Murray Wallace’s display against Cardiff City

Millwall manager Gary Rowett has praised Murray Wallace for the way he dealt with Cardiff City striker Jordan Hugill on Saturday.

The Scottish defender opened the scoring in the Lions’ 2-1 victory over the Welsh side.

Hugill seemed to drift towards Wallace when Cardiff played balls over the top of the midfield. The Millwall centre-back won 10 aerial duels – the most of any player on the pitch.

Shaun Hutchinson won five with Jake Cooper finishing with four.

“I think Cardiff thought put him on the little Scotsman and he [Hugill] will win every header,” said Rowett. “Little did they know that he’s probably in the gym 23 hours a day and as competitve as they come.

“It’s testament to the player’s character that whoever plays against him has a scrap. And he’ll show that composure, like we’ve seen, in front of goal and in general play.

“Certainly for us it is important, as it was in the West Brom game, that our three central defenders defend that first ball and defend that direct ball – don’t allow any real easy second balls or knockdowns – to allow the opposition to get a little foothold in those areas.

“All three of our centre-backs were really competitive, and have been for the last few weeks. Muzza, with his goal, epitomises that.”