Hull City vs Millwall: Play-off Semi-Final Ends Goalless, All to Play For in Second Leg
The Championship play-off semi-final between Hull City and Millwall finished in a goalless draw, leaving everything to be decided in the second leg. Both teams had chances to take the lead, but ultimately, neither could find the back of the net.
Key Takeaways:
- Hull City and Millwall played out a tense 0-0 draw in the first leg of their Championship play-off semi-final.
- Both teams created opportunities, with Hull’s Belloumi and Millwall’s Azeez forcing saves, and Neghli hitting the post.
- Millwall had a late goal disallowed for a foul in the build-up, a decision that sparked debate.
- The tie remains wide open, with the second leg set to determine who advances to the final.
Match Analysis: A Tight Affair
From the outset, it was clear this would be a closely contested match. Hull City came close to an early breakthrough in just the second minute. Mohammed Belloumi embarked on a remarkable solo run down the left flank, showcasing his individual brilliance, but couldn’t convert the chance.
Millwall responded with their own threats. Camiel Neghli was unfortunate not to give his side the lead when his long-range effort struck the post. As the game progressed, the intensity grew, and the goalkeepers were called into action. Hull’s Ivor Pandur made a crucial save to deny Millwall’s star player, Femi Azeez, who had forced his way through and tested the keeper.
Disallowed Goal Adds to the Drama
The closing stages of the match saw a moment of controversy. Ryan Leonard appeared to have scored for Millwall four minutes from time, only for the goal to be disallowed. The referee, Gavin Ward, chalked off the effort due to a foul by Tristan Crama on Charlie Hughes in the build-up. This decision left Millwall manager Alex Neil frustrated.
“I thought we were the better side so I’m probably not satisfied if I’m being honest just because we were better in the game – they didn’t really risk the ball,” Neil told Sky Sports. “We could have moved the ball better and Barry Bannan coming on gave us more of a stranglehold in the game. If you’d said at the start of the season we’d have one game at home to get us to a play-off final and it’s all square I’d have taken it.”
On the disallowed goal, he added: “I thought it was really soft, both lads were at it so it’ll be interesting to see Gavin’s [referee Gavin Ward] thoughts on it when he watches it back. Throughout the game he let a lot of things go but it’ll be interesting to get his thoughts on it, I’m sure he’ll say he thought it was a foul.”
What’s Next?
With the first leg ending in a stalemate, the tie is perfectly poised for a dramatic second leg. Both Hull City and Millwall will be analyzing their performances and strategizing for the crucial upcoming fixture. The winner will advance to the Championship play-off final, with a place in the Premier League on the line.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
- What was the result of the Hull City vs Millwall match?
The first leg of the Championship play-off semi-final between Hull City and Millwall ended in a 0-0 draw. - Was there a disallowed goal in the match?
Yes, Millwall had a late goal disallowed for a foul in the build-up. - When is the second leg of the play-off semi-final?
The date for the second leg will be confirmed by the EFL. Fans should check official sources for updates. - Who will play in the Championship play-off final if Hull or Millwall win?
The winner of this tie will face the winner of the other semi-final (likely Southampton vs Leeds United) in the Championship play-off final.
