MillwallSport

Millwall’s reaction to adversity in Southampton victory is a big plus for head coach Neil Harris

Millwall head coach Neil Harris has picked out one particular aspect of the club’s 2-1 win at Southampton after rewatching the match.

Japhet Tanganga and Zian Flemming scored in the first half at St Mary’s Stadium as Harris won his first game back in charge.

“One thing that really pleased me was that Southampton, as we know, are a very good side and dominated possession-wise, but leading up to the goal (from Che Adams) – and a couple of moments after we conceded – we dealt with adversity really, really well.

“I think it was something that had been pointed out to me when I took that job that it had been labelled at the group in games recently about not dealing with adversity in key moments. I thought we did – individually and collectively. I was really pleased with that when I watched it back.

“The timing of the goals helped that as well.

“The reaction of the group in the changing room afterwards and also Monday morning…the lads came in and trained well. You just get a hunger within the group to do well.

“I can only go on what I’ve seen. The group has responded very well to me as a person and my management skills – the way I go about it tactically.

“I will be slightly different to managers they’ve had in the past. I like to be myself and ultimately I’m a Millwall man. I lead with passion, drive and character. Some of the lads may not have been used to that when they came through academies etc but they will have to get used to it quickly – and they are.

“I’ve enjoyed working with them in my four or five sessions on the training ground. There’s been an excellent attitude to train and learn.

“One strong performance and one strong result at Southampton doesn’t make a season for anybody. Everyone understands that, and that one performance needs to become two, three and four – some consistency. That continues with the game against Watford. It’s another tough, ex-Premier League opponent and this could be a little bit similar to Southampton.

“But what a great opportunity for the players to showcase themselves – as they did last week at St Mary’s.”

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