Ben earns replay as late strike stops Dale
BEN THOMPSON’S equaliser in the 90th minute salvaged a draw for Millwall against League One strugglers Rochdale in what was a gripping cup tie at The Den.
The Lions – quarter-finalists in last season’s FA Cup
– were on the brink of being the victims of a shock, with Dale making light of the 32 league places between the two teams.
Matt Done’s goal put them agonisingly close to reaching the fifth round for the third time in their history but they will get a second crack at it.
Lions boss Neil Harris said: “I didn’t recognise that Millwall team in the first hour.
“But then I changed the shape and changed the personnel in the last half-hour and it was much better.”
Each side fielded a defensive debutant, with Millwall giving Derby loanee Jason Shackell his bow, while Ryan Delaney was handed his first appearance for Rochdale after his move from Burton.
Shane Ferguson threatened an early breakthrough for the hosts but he wastefully dragged a shot wide after a promising run.
Millwall were awarded a penalty in the 16th minute when Fred Onyedinma was taken out in the area by centre-back Donervon Daniels.
Jed Wallace, who was the stoppage-time hero at Leeds last week, found the net with his spot-kick, although Dale keeper Josh Lillis got his gloves to the ball.
But the visitors were level just after the half-hour when Andy Cannon played a fine ball through to Ian Henderson, who finished into the bottom corner.
Rochdale took the lead in the 53rd minute when Cannon teased the Lions defence before his cross was deflected over David Martin to allow Done to tap in.
Just when it looked as if Rochdale would hold out, Millwall rescued the tie when Thompson was left unmarked to sweep in Steve Morison’s cross at the near post.
Rochdale boss Keith Hill said: “It is a positive disappointment the players are feeling, because they know they’ve played well.”