Millwall vs Sheffield Wednesday match report: Owls survival hopes remain lit
By James Stocks
February 19, 2024

In a crucial clash between relegation-threatened teams, Sheffield Wednesday secured a vital 2-0 victory against Millwall on Saturday. 

The breakthrough for Sheffield Wednesday came in the 31st minute when striker Ike Ugbo showcased his goal-scoring abilities, finding the back of the net for the sixth time this season. 

The lead was extended just 10 minutes later, with Anthony Musaba confidently slotting home in the 41st minute. Musaba’s clinical finish added to the newfound attacking repertoire of Danny Rohl’s Wednesday and solidified their advantage.

Assists for the goals came from the creative contributions of Anthony Musaba and Barry Bannan, emphasising the team’s ability to capitalise on key moments. 

The partnership between the goal scorers and the providers showcased the cohesion within the Sheffield Wednesday attacking unit.

Just like in recent weeks, Millwall started the match brighter, creating clear chances that tested Wednesday’s defence. However, they couldn’t find the necessary edge needed to topple their opponents.

Despite The Lions finishing the match with the kings share of possession, it was their lack of efficiency in front of goal that ultimately made the difference. 

As the second half unfolded, Zian Flemming and substitute Duncan Watmore went close for the home side, attempting to reclaim any likelihood of the points being shared. 

However, the home side found Wednesday’s goalkeeper, James Beadle, in fine form, as he thwarted their attempts to find the back of the net.

In a dramatic turn of events, Sheffield Wednesday’s joy was tempered by the late dismissal of Ashley Fletcher. The forward received his second yellow card in injury time, just 13 minutes after coming off the bench, leaving his team to finish the game with 10 men. 

Sheffield Wednesday fans on their way into The Den [Source: Kory Halfpenny]

Fletcher’s untimely exit added an element of tension in the dying moments, but the away side managed to hold on to their lead, rounding off a successful trip for the travelling fans.

With this crucial victory, Sheffield Wednesday remain second from bottom in the Championship table. However, the three points gained have narrowed the gap to 22nd placed QPR to just three points. 

Lifelong Owl’s fan Daniel Bryan, 25, remains positive about his side’s chances for the remainder of the season.

He said: “I’m hopeful, like most Wednesday fans, I think the manager is the man to keep us up and just hope he’s with us next year with a full preseason and his own signings through the door.

“We [Sheffield Wednesday] have a good run of games where we should pick points up and plenty of six pointers into the end of the season.”

The win provides a glimmer of hope for Sheffield Wednesday in their battle to avoid relegation, while Millwall faces increased pressure in their bid to stay clear of the bottom three.