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Drafted in to replace the injured Darren Byfield, Braniff's inclusion in the team was originally greeted with boos from the Millwall crowd but two goals in three games and couple of superlative performances have seen a change in attitude towards the striker. Perhaps, after years of mis-starts and lacklustre performances, the 23-year-old is finally fulfilling the promise that saw Dennis Wise reward him with a three-year-contract.
"I'm very pleased Kevin got the first as he was absolutely outstanding and worked extremely hard," said Spackman after the game. "He scored a great goal and it was an excellent all-round performance from him.
"He's shown a great attitude in training and in the reserves, and with Darren Byfield out he's taken his opportunity. He came on at Chesterfield and scored a good goal, did well at the weekend and then he got this goal and lasted the full 90 minutes."
However, despite recent performances, the manager knows that the former Norther Ireland Under-21 international still has a lot of baggage with regards to his relationship with the fans.
"I was astounded he was booed on to the pitch in pre-season", reflected Spackman. "But he's turned the crowd around - they've responded to him and that's spurred him on.
"It's not about the past, it's about what he does for Millwall now."