“I’m not going to criticise” – Millwall boss Gary Rowett supportive of goalkeeper Bart Bialkowski

BY DANIEL MARSH

Gary Rowett defended Millwall keeper Bartosz Bialkowski following the 1-1 stalemate with Reading.

Lucas Joao cancelled out Jed Wallace’s superb free-kick early in the second half. The Portuguese found space from a tight angle to lash him a powerful low strike, which appeared to go through the Lions stopper’s legs at his near post.

Rowett admitted that Bialkowski would maybe be a “little disappointed” to be beaten from a narrow angle, but was quick to point out that there were other factors at play for the visitors goal.

“Bart’s been incredible for us – I’m not going to criticise Bart. I think he’ll probably be a little bit disappointed from that angle. But it’s not easy, sometimes you make yourself big but a good striker will try and find that space between your legs.

“I think Hutchy had a chance to clear it but didn’t clear it well, it then gets in behind Lenny and then that’s the third moment. At the minute, we have to be perfect. Unfortunately, it’s hard to ask players to be perfect defensively every game. We’ve got to go and score the second and third goals to allow those mistakes and still win the match.”

PICTURE: KEITH GILLARD