Millwall manager Neil Harris finds final outcome of Preston North End game tough to digest

BY RICHARD CAWLEY

Millwall manager Neil Harris admitted he found Saturday’s 3-2 defeat at Preston North End “difficult to stomach”.

The Lions are still winless on the road this season but once again had big chances at Deepdale to end that statistic.

Instead Millwall will try to improve their points travel on the road at Stoke City, who have lost just once in 13 Championship fixtures.

Only Ipswich and Sheffield Wednesday have conceded as many goals away this season – 22.

Harris said: “We scored two away from home – you shouldn’t get beaten.

“It’s not just a defender problem or a goalkeeper problem – it’s the team ethos which has cost us three goals.

“I’m frustrated because I watched the second half and the team play with flair, pace and creating chances – lots of shots and forcing set-plays.

“The first half was a little more tentative but we were in shape and not conceding any chances – but within five minutes we are 2-0 down. That is very, very difficult to stomach.

“At half-time we changed tactics to go with a 4-3-3 and try and get a foothold in the game. It is just another of many games where we have been the better team, created numerous chances – 11 clearcut ones and scored two – but got nothing to show for our efforts.

“It is costing us at the moment. There are so many points we have left on the table.

“There was so much of the game that we were in control of. Stats wise we were miles in front in terms of clear-cut chances. However, we lost the game. So many times this season we have conceded too many goals.

“It’s been clear we have been searching for the right formula. Anyone who has followed my team and selection over a period knows I like to pick a settled side and certainly show trust in players.

“It has been difficult this season, because of results. At times I’ve been able to stick with it but the problem has been we have not had consistent performances in individuals and the team to warrant picking a settled team – injuries and suspensions come into the mix as well.

“At the moment we go in to December still searching for the right formula, especially away from home. Home performances have been a lot more consistent – what has cost us there is last-minute goals, otherwise our record there would be unbelievable.

“I’ve got to make us consistent for 90 minutes.”

IMAGES BY BRIAN TONKS