Robins are too fierce for Lions

DEALING with Millwall’s physicality was the key to success according to Bristol City boss Dean Holden, following his side’s comfortable victory at the Den.

The win sends the Robins into the fifth round for just the second time in 20 years, where the Championship side will face Premier League Sheffield United.

A Famara Diedhiou penalty just after the half-hour mark, after the Senegalese i nternational was hauled down by Millwall keeper Frankie Fielding following a neat Zak Vyner through ball, gave City the lead slightly against the run of play but they dominated proceedings after the break.

Nahki Wells’ deflected free-kick made it 2-0 and the Bermudan forward then slipped in Antoine Semenyo, who finished calmly to put the game beyond doubt 18 minutes from time.

‘Coming to Millwall is always a tough fixture but we handled the physical pressure really well and it’s a good afternoon’s work,’ said Holden. ‘We were aggressive in our defensive work but there was also a huge improvement in what we did with the ball.’

With one eye on a hectic schedule of Championship action, Millwall boss Gary Rowett made eight changes to the XI that started against Huddersfield in midweek.

‘We had to reflect on where the FA Cup is in terms of priority and we took a bit of gamble but some players haven’t taken their opportunity,’ he said.