‘Big performance’ – Millwall boss reacts to Championship opening day win at Middlesbrough as youngsters combine to score late winner

Millwall kicked off their 2023-24 Championship campaign with a win over Middlesbrough thanks to Romain Esse’s 79th-minute finish.

The Lions claimed all three points when Esse collected Aidomo Emakhu’s cross at the back post and curled a shot beyond Seny Dieng.

This was Esse’s first senior goal for the South Londoners.

“To come to a place like this, where Michael [Carrick] has done an absolutely fantastic job [is impressive],” said Rowett.

“With the style of play, they’re very difficult to play against. They drag you out of areas, and every time your centre-half thinks he can step in, they go another 10 yards and pull your defence apart a little bit.

“But I didn’t think that they created that many opportunities — we defended really well.

“We had some absolutely amazing chances on the break and in transition. We had a couple of one-against-ones where we should go and score. 

“But we scored a fantastic goal at the end. It was an amazing three points, a big performance and a nice way to start the season.”

PICTURES: BRIAN TONKS