‘I’d rather him be disappointed today than in a competitive fixture’ – Millwall boss Harris on goal conceded in Saints friendly loss

Millwall head coach Neil Harris has given his thoughts on the goal that his side conceded in today’s 1-0 friendly defeat to Southampton.

Saints striker Adam Armstrong scored in the second half. He was left with a simple finish after Lions keeper Lukas Jensen could not prevent Will Smallbone’s cross squeezing between his gloves.

Harris said: “At half-time, in some ways, we were disappointed not to be in front because we had the better opportunities and a goal disallowed.

“Lukas will be disappointed with the goal but I’d rather him be disappointed today than be disappointed in coming weeks.

“But he showed his qualities with his distribution at times, I’m not just talking goal-kicks but in open play. His decision-making and distribution was good and will be effective for us.

“He made a couple of routine-to-good saves that will settle him.

“It was a brilliant game. Myself and Russ (Martin, Southampton boss) spoke before the game and talked about tactically how it was going to go. They came to us because they wanted to control the football and play against what he classed as the best defensive shape in the Championship last season.

“We wanted a game because we knew they were the best team we could face pre-season, with the ball, that would test our defensive shape and leadership qualities – our communication and counter-attack qualities as well.

“The results are irrelevant, I’ve said that in every game. We had defensive solidarity and control – moments where we let Southampton control the football and force them to go around us at every opportunity. We counter-attacked really well.

“What was missing? Just that final product again. That’s what the recruitment team are looking for, to give me those players that give us the final moments.”

PICTURE: KEITH GILLARD