Stevenage start pre-season with narrow win over Millwall
Stevenage kicked off their pre-season preparations with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Championship side Millwall at Broadhall Way. The decisive moment came when Jake Cooper deflected a cross into his own net, handing the League One outfit a morale-boosting win ahead of the new campaign.
The Boro, who finished 6th in League One last season with 75 points (21W-12D-13L), showed resilience against higher-league opposition. Filip Marshall was a standout performer for Stevenage, making several crucial saves to preserve the clean sheet.
What happened in the friendly?
Millwall started brightly, with Tairyk Arconte looking particularly sharp. The Lions created several early chances, but Stevenage goalkeeper Filip Marshall was in inspired form, denying Josh Coburn and Casper De Norre with excellent saves. The League One side grew into the game and took the lead through an unfortunate own goal from Millwall defender Jake Cooper.
After the break, Millwall pushed for an equalizer but Stevenage held firm. The Boro had chances of their own, with Arconte and Luke Cundle testing Marshall. However, the game petered out in the final stages, with both sides making substitutions and the heat taking its toll.
Why it matters for Stevenage
This victory will give Stevenage confidence as they prepare for the new League One season. After finishing 6th last term, just 28 points behind leaders Lincoln, the Boro will be looking to challenge for promotion. The win over higher-league opposition is a positive sign, especially with key players like Marshall in fine form.
What comes next?
Stevenage will continue their pre-season preparations with further friendlies before the League One campaign kicks off. The Boro will be hoping to build on this performance and carry their momentum into the new season. With a promising squad and a strong finish to last season (1W-0D-4L in their last five), Stevenage will be ones to watch in League One.
