TONY’S BIG HOPE
TONY CRAIG believes Millwall’s big-game mentality proves why they are so feared heading into the League One play-offs.
The Lions have been installed as favourites ahead of tonight’s semi-final first leg against Scunthorpe at The Den.
That’s despite Scunthorpe finishing nine points above Millwall.
But Craig reckons his team-mates thrive on the big occasion after raising the bar to stun Premier League Watford, Bournemouth and Leicester in the FA Cup this season.
Lions skipper Craig, 32, said: “The FA Cup are one-off games but it proved we have the mentality to win important games when it matters.
“We will need all of that for the play-offs. It’s about clearing our mind and going for it. If we are on our game, then we can beat any team in this league.
“We know Scunthorpe are a strong side with quality. But we let ourselves down in too many games for our liking this season and we can put that right now.
“It’s high pressure, but you have to embrace these important moments.”
Meanwhile, Scunthorpe’s Duane Holmes is out to seal promotion for crocked pal Matt Crooks.
Crooks, on loan from Rangers, faces fresh heartache as he misses a second consecutive play-off campaign through injury, having been sidelined for Accrington’s failed bid 12 months ago.
Holmes said: “We are best pals and I saw how disappointed he was last year when he couldn’t play in the play-offs for Accrington.
“For it to happen two years in a row for him is so disappointing. He’s shown what a good player he is and we want to thank him for helping us to get where we are.”