The Lions face the Swans on Saturday, with both sides looking to extend on their much improved run of performances. Millwall beat Swansea 2-1 in this exact fixture in March, with the other meeting ending in 2-2 draw.
Millwall
Gary Rowett’s Millwall have been rather inconsistent this season, in terms of results, performances and even the amount of goals scored. After eight games, they’ve picked up 11 points and sit in 11th place. The Lions biggest concern so far, is their inability to consistently score goals which has mainly been narrowed down to poor finishing, with an underperformance of XG. Millwall unfortunately have the third worst goals scored per game record in the Championship also, with an average of 0.88.
This lack of confidence in attack was on display against West Brom last weekend, where they drew 0-0. Millwall’s attacking woes continued as Zian Flemming missed a first half penalty that was saved by Alex Palmer. In the second half, Millwall were completely dominated and only registered one shot which was blocked and caused no danger whatsoever. The only positive that can be taken from the game is that they were yet again solid at the back and despite the waves of pressure, they were able to keep a clean sheet.
Swansea
Swansea’s start to the campaign was rather poor, with the squad struggling to adapt to Michael Duff’s philosophy and instructions. However, in recent weeks the results have improved, with the Swans picking up four of their total six points. This puts the Welsh side in 21st place with a record of one win, three draws and four defeats. Fine margins has decided almost every Swansea game this season and they will be desperate to earn three points this weekend, as they are yet to win a game on the road.
In fact, their only victory of the season came in last weekend’s 3-0 victory over last placed Sheffield Wednesday. Swansea went into the break with a 1-0 lead thanks to Jamal Lowe’s penalty just before the half hour mark. Jerry Yates was subbed on in the first half due to a Josh Ginnelly Injury and he doubled the hosts advantage in the 64th minute, just before Charlie Patino netted the third goal. Duff will want to use this result as momentum for the upcoming tie.
Verdict?
Millwall and Swansea have both struggled at times this season and we have seen a different version of each team in almost every game. Swansea can score goals unlike the hosts and they have only failed to score once this campaign. I believe the visitors may just edge it.
The final prediction is Millwall 0-1 Swansea.
