Millwall’s long awaited return to the Den ended in disappointment as the fell to a 3-2 defeat to Derby County. Not the ideal start to a promotion push, but here are how the players rated:

Bartosz Bialkowski – 6

Not much Bart could have done about either goal today. Made a big save when required in the first half, but was almost caught out by a couple of poor distributions too.

Mahlon Romeo – 7

Romeo looked sharp today, getting forward well and even testing the keeper on a couple of occasions. His relationship with Wallace down the right has clearly not been affected by three months apart.

Shaun Hutchinson – 5

Hutch looked a bit rusty today, Sibley getting the better of him on a couple of occasions. Strong in the air as usual, but slightly off the pace.

News Shopper:

Jake Cooper – 5

Not much to do for Cooper today, but, like Hutchinson, he was slightly off the pace when it mattered.

Murray Wallace – 6

His driving run pushed Millwall forward for the opener. He kept

Ryan Woods – 5

He was the better of the midfield two, making some good tackles and receiving the ball under pressure. Overall, he struggled against an impressive Derby midfield.

Jayson Molumby – 5

Full of running as usual, but his passing was poor today. In tandem with Woods, Molumby struggled to manage the midfield battle.

Jed Wallace – 6

Quiet day for Wallace, who struggled to have an impact going forward. Some good deliveries and some poor ones.

Ryan Leonard – 6

He didn’t set the world alight in his new advanced role, but there were definitely some positive signs. Good to have him back on the pitch after a long time out with injury.

Shane Ferguson – 6

Good delivery for Matt Smith’s opener, the sort of cross Millwall fans have come accustomed too. Support Murray Wallace well in defence.

Matt Smith – 8

Picked up where he left off at Forest, the big man was dominant in the air and even impressed with the feet. Do I mention that nutmeg?

Subs:

Bradshaw – N/A

Bodvarsson – N/A

Skalak – N/A

Mahoney – N/A

Williams – N/A

There was little impact off the bench for Millwall, despite Bodvarsson pulling on back.