Lions boss delighted with opening day success at Greenhous Meadow
Millwall manager Neil Harris could not hide his delight as goals from strikers Steve Morison and Lee Gregory turned a 1-0 deficit into 2-1 win to kick off the season with an opening day victory at Shrewsbury Town.Speaking moments after the final whistle Chopper enthused: "To get a win in that game, on the opening day, gives us a lot of belief for the season.
"We knew this would be one of the toughest games we could have had first up. But I knew that the boys were ready, and they showed that today.
"Apart from maybe a quiet 15 minute spell, I felt we were outstanding.
"We controlled the game and I am delighted for our two goal-scorers.
"Steve Morison has had a real intense week and his performance leading the line was excellent. With Lee Gregory we've put an expectation on his shoulders to score goals also, so for him to get off the mark is really pleasing.
"Defensively I thought we were excellent. We really stood up to the challenge of their wide players and their presence up front. We were immense with that and I thought our two centre-halves were outstanding.
"The whole performance gives us a benchmark for the season. We were disappointed to go behind, but our response was right.
"The way that we managed the game, certainly in the last 10 minutes, was outstanding. Having people like Tony Craig and Byron Webster, and Shaun Williams in the middle of the park to organise and see the game out, was a big bonus for us."
Chopper held particular praise for the display of teenager Fred Onyedinma, who set up Morison's goal and also had a hand in the move that led to the penalty for Millwall's second.
"Fred's game management was exactly how we know it can be," he added.
"I like the way he gets the ball, looks up and likes to go on the attack.
"He could have had a goal himself in the first-half when he cut in from the right, but was unlucky that the keeper made a great save. He is one of a number of promising youngsters we have at the club and they will all get their chance to play their part this season."
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Chopper held particular praise for the display of teenager Fred Onyedinma, who set up Morison's goal and also had a hand in the move that led to the penalty for Millwall's second.
"Fred's game management was exactly how we know it can be," he added.
"I like the way he gets the ball, looks up and likes to go on the attack.
"He could have had a goal himself in the first-half when he cut in from the right, but was unlucky that the keeper made a great save. He is one of a number of promising youngsters we have at the club and they will all get their chance to play their part this season."
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