NEIL Harris knew Millwall would respond to their FA Cup defeat to Rochdale – though he admitted the disappointment of missing out on a fifth-round clash with Tottenham was felt by fans.
Harris left out a number of his first-choice players as Millwall lost 1-0 at Spotland last Tuesday.
The Lions boss made eight changes for Friday night’s Championship clash with Cardiff and saw his side dominate the majority of the game.
Millwall made an awful start when Junior Hoilett gave the Bluebirds the lead in the third minute, before Lee Gregory levelled five minutes before half-time.
The result means the Lions have lost just twice in their last 12 league games, and are now unbeaten at The Den in nine games in all competitions.
Millwall are 11 points clear of the relegation zone with 15 games left.
“We got beaten fair and square in a cup game, that’s the beauty of it, cup upsets happen all the time. I don’t think the rest of the nation saw it as a massive upset, Rochdale beating Millwall, I’ve got to be honest,” Harris said.
“We were obviously disappointed but the disappointment comes because of the carrot at the end of it, it’s a highlight for Rochdale and disappointing for our fans.
“I knew my players would respond, we always respond well. We’ve got great character. We had a poor three minutes at the start but had the response afterwards.
“We had a bad 45 minutes against Norwich on New Year’s Day, but barring that we have been excellent in the league for three months.
“I’m really, really pleased with how we are going at the moment. Not only are we gaining points but we look a really good side.”
Image: Millwall FC