Hull City player ratings as Nathan Baxter the pick in Millwall defeat

A Tom Eaves strike three minutes from time was not enough to save Hull City from defeat against play-off hopefuls Millwall at The Den. City were the better side in the first half but failed to make their dominance pay, and were punished by two quick-fire goals early in the second half.

Scott Malone's opener had a huge element of luck about it, before Tom Bradshaw rattled in the second soon after and it could have been more, had Nathan Baxter not been in fine form. Eaves pulled a goal back late on to rattle the nerces of the home supporters, though they were able to hold on for a victory which takes them closer to the top six.

Here’s how City reporter Barry Cooper rated the Tigers players at in South London at The Den.

Nathan Baxter: Rush of blood early on from Elder's backpass. Made a terrific diving stop to deny Malone and then another from Afobe early in the second. Could do little about either goal. Made some fine stops second half. 8/10

Jacob Greaves: In front of the watching David Moyes certainly looked good in the first half. Will be frustrated with his part in the second goal. 6/10

Callum Elder: Poor back pass almost handed Millwall the opener, but made a great recovery. A mixed afternoon on his return. 6/10

Alfie Jones: Came close to opening the scoring first half. That aside, was fine for the most part amid a second-half that proved a tough affair. 7/10

Sean McLoughlin: Another classic McLoughlin showing in the first period, the second half became a struggle for him and City as they came under greater pressure. 6/10

Ryan Longman: Industrious in the first half, looked refreshed after a week off. Plenty of effort in the first period, struggle to get on the ball in the second. 6/10

Richie Smallwood: Dominant