The Lions were denied an historic victory in their first-ever competitive European appearance by a late free-kick from Peter Lipcsei after David Livermore made a rash challenge on the edge of the box. But although some may be disappointed by the result, The Lions can hold their heads up high.
Millwall deservedly took the lead in the 66th minute when player-manager Dennis Wise wrong footed goalkeeper Lajos Szucs in the Ferencvaros goal with a superb free-kick and looked on course for victory as the Hungarians rarely ventured forward. But now they go to Budapest knowing that they’ll need to score to keep them in the competition.
Wise’s men started the game well, with skipper Kevin Muscat making his first start for five months and Neil Harris and Stefan Moore leading the attack, and could’ve gone ahead as early as the sixth minute. A Dennis Wise corner saw Marvin Elliot rise to head the ball goalwards only for Szucs to somehow palm the ball away.
Elliot, who looked impressive all evening, tested Szucs again in the 18th minute with an excellent 25-yard strike as The Lions found their feet in Europe. The midfield continued to probe the Hungarian defence but they lost their momentum momentarily when Jody Morris was injured and had to be replaced by youngster Barry Cogan.
Millwall pushed forward in the second half and had the ball in the net at one point but the goal was ruled out after the referee decided that the Ferencvaros goalkeeper had been fouled by Matt Lawrence as the cross came in.
Shortly afterwards, Wise did put the ball into the net after a dangerous run from Moore led to a free-kick on the edge of the area. The goal forced Ferencvaros’ hand and they pushed forward in search of an equaliser. This left them vulnerable at the back and from another freekick, Darren Ward had the opportunity to put The Lions further ahead but opted to head the ball back across the goal.
Paul Ifill made his return to first team football with fifteen minutes left but his return was dampened by Lipcsei’s equaliser shortly afterwards, which beat Stack’s dive, although the goalkeeper did manage to get a touch on it.
Danielle Dichio was brought on for the last ten minutes and Millwall almost snatched it at the death when Elliot – who else? – drilled a low shot from the edge of the area, but once again he was denied by Szucs in the opposition’s goal.
Millwall-Mad Ratings:
Graham Stack - 7 - Unlucky with the free-kick
Kevin Muscat - 8 - Welcome back Muzzy
Josh Simpson - 7 - Strong at the back, strong coming forward
Marvin Elliot - 9 - What a game!
Matt Lawrence - 7 - Held the opposition well
Darren Ward - 7 - Solid once again
Dennis Wise - 8 - Steered the ship into European waters
Jody Morris - 6 - Injury cut short his game
David Livermore - 6 - Tackled well but gave the ball away
Neil Harris - 7 - Run the opposition ragged but had little joy
Stefan Moore - 7 - Solid game
Subs
Barry Cogan - 7 - Surprise replacement for Morris. Did well.
Danielle Dichio - 6 - Made an impact
Paul Ifill - 7 - Showed flashes of genius