By Sam Brown

MILLWALL manager Kenny Jackett believes Blackpool striker Thomas Ince was the difference between the two sides as the Lions lost 2-0 to the Tangerines at the Den.

The 20-year-old struck a goal in each half to condemn the south Londoners to a demoralising defeat on the opening day of the season.

Jackett said: “It was a disappointing start.

“I felt that Thomas Ince was the difference.

“Two sparks of brilliance, very good goals and it turned it, I felt.”

The Lions’ Championship campaign got off to a bleak start after Jackett’s side dominated the first 30 minutes but a number of chances went begging and Ince made no mistake when he was given the opportunity.

Jackett added: “I felt that our forwards had a lot of opportunities, with some terrific crosses for which both centre halves were excellent.

“So going forward we created chances and lot of very good balls from the wide positions which they defended well.

“A couple of bits of brilliance from Ince was the difference between the two sides.

“I was encouraged by Darius Henderson and Andy] Keogh, I do think if they play that way they will score goals.

“That gives me encouragement for the season that I have players that can score.

“James Henry’s delivery from either wing was very good.

“His crossing was terrific.

“We didn’t necessarily get on the end of it but going forward there were encouraging signs.”

Jackett also claimed his side were unsettled by the numerous changes to his back four throughout the game.

He explained: “I thought we were disjointed as a back four.

“I thought we were too deep and we need the authority to have the ball and pick the right pass.

“Our distribution from the back could be better.

“They were poor goals against us.”

Summer signing Chris Taylor was absent from the squad, although Jackett revealed that there was no injury and it was purely a selection decision.

The Lions travel to Peterborough United on Tuesday where they will be looking to bounce back after a disappointing opening day.

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