Millwall Football Club face a tough test at Middlesbrough on Tuesday night as they aim to halt a run of two consecutive defeats. The Lions sit 13th in the Championship with nine points from six games, five points behind leaders West Ham, after a 3-1 loss at Blackburn last time out.
Recent struggles
That result at Ewood Park continued a difficult recent spell. Millwall's form over the last five matches reads one win and four losses. Lyndon Dykes, the team's top scorer with three goals this season, netted a penalty in the 51st minute against Blackburn to briefly level the scores. Oladapo Afolayan's double and a late Andri Guðjohnsen strike sealed the defeat for Gary Rowett's side.
The Middlesbrough challenge
Tuesday's opponents present a formidable hurdle. Middlesbrough are fourth in the table and come into the match on the back of a thrilling 4-3 home win over Norwich. Their recent results show a team in strong scoring form, with three wins in their last five outings. Millwall's last starting lineup, a 4-2-3-1 against Blackburn, featured Matija Crocombe in goal with a back four of Jeremie Osei-Tutu, Charlie Taylor, Jake Cooper and Zak Norton Sturge. The midfield was anchored by Djeidi Mazou-Sacko and Jenson Metcalfe.
Looking ahead
A positive result at the Riverside Stadium would provide a significant boost. The club's current goal difference stands at zero, having scored and conceded 11 goals across the opening six fixtures. The match kicks off at 18:45 UTC on September 15.
