Millwall to be feared even away from Lions’ den

BORO will be relieved to discover Lions are not the fierce man-eaters that might have been first feared. Millwall, who have been in devastating form since the turn of the year, were comprehensively beaten by Fulham on Friday. The result is a good one from Boro’s play-offs point of view. But they will still underestimate the South Londoners next weekend at their peril.

Boro entertain Millwall at the Riverside knowing a win will guarantee they finish ahead of the Lions in the Championship table.

However, despite Boro’s satisfaction at Fulham’s victory on Friday, Tony Pulis will be well aware of the dramatic way in which Millwall began the all-London clash.

They attacked Fulham from the start with 100mph football, yet the visitors’ opening goal made a huge difference. Once Millwall fell behind, they did not look the same side. Clearly Boro need to score first.

Even so, Millwall boss Neil Harris has achieved a minor miracle since they were last previously beaten by Norwich on New Year’s Day. The Lions have taken 42 points out of the last 60.

Away from home, they have won 23 points from the last 30. They have won seven away games this year, although all of these victories came against sides were in the bottom half of the table.

Harris has revealed he has got the best out of his squad by introducing a “siege mentality”.

Boro are also a team in form. The fact they can take a massive step towards the play-offs on Saturday will not be lost on the dressing room.

And home advantage could prove crucial. If Boro get their noses in front at the Riverside, they are a difficult team to peg back.