Spackman highlights the positives

Darren Byfield challenges for the ball

Manager Nigel Spackman refused to point the finger of blame after The Lions could only draw in their opening match of the new season yesterday afternoon against Yeovil, but it was clear that to many that several players weren't functioning in the new-look Millwall line-up.

The Lions were held after the visitors took the lead in the first half through Wayne Gray after left-back Tony Craig was found guilty of ball watching in the box. And despite an encouraging display in the second-half and Darren Byfield's leveller, many fans expected to see Millwall start with a win.

But Spackman feels the foundations have been laid for the season ahead and was quick to draw positives from the game.

"There were some encouraging performances," said the manager. "But we will get stronger as a unit.

"There is a lot of improvement to make, but we will get there in the end. The players will learn more about each other in match situations. We have good, young talent and some more mature players."