Millwall manager Alex Neil believes Derby County defender Ryan Nyambe was fortunate to avoid a red card for a challenge that left Joe Bryan needing treatment during his side’s 1-0 victory at Pride Park.
Left-back Bryan was forced off in the second half following Nyambe’s late tackle, which resulted in a booking rather than a dismissal. While Neil was relieved that the injury was not more serious, he felt the referee had missed a clear sending-off offence.
“I think he’s just cut the bridge of his foot. I don’t think there’s any structural damage which is pleasing. It’s not a good challenge. I’ve seen it back. It’s a poor challenge from the lad.
I don’t think he means it. The referee obviously doesn’t see it properly, because if he does I think he probably sends him off. It wasn’t a good challenge but it is what it is.”
Late Winner Seals Vital Millwall Win
Despite the injury setback, Millwall secured all three points thanks to a stoppage-time winner from substitute Josh Coburn. The on-loan Middlesbrough forward had earlier missed a penalty, seeing his effort saved by Jacob Widell Zetterstrom, but made amends by pouncing at the back post to snatch victory.
The result deepens Derby’s relegation worries, leaving them four points from safety at the foot of the Championship. Meanwhile, Millwall continue their push up the table with a valuable away win.
Neil felt his side were fully deserving of the victory and should have made the breakthrough earlier.
“I thought it was no more than what we deserved in the game. I thought we had good opportunities in the game, and I thought in the first half, we had two or three good chances.
Japhet [Tanganga] should have had a penalty. We got into good positions but just lacked that final ball.”
Writer’s View
Neil’s frustration over the challenge is understandable, but ultimately Millwall’s late winner overshadowed the incident. Derby’s struggles continue, and while Nyambe may have been fortunate to avoid a red card, the Rams must focus on finding a way to turn performances into much-needed points. Millwall, meanwhile, are steadily climbing the table, with this result showcasing their resilience and ability to grind out crucial wins.
