Millwall vs West Ham: The 100th Dockers Derby Returns After 14 Years
Millwall and West Ham Face Off Again After 14 Years
On 19 September 2026, Millwall will host West Ham United at The Den for their first competitive match in 14 years. This fixture marks the 100th official meeting between these two London clubs, continuing one of English football's fiercest rivalries rooted in working-class pride and shipyard history.
A Century of Battles
Since their first clash nearly a century ago, these clubs have met 99 times. Millwall hold a slight advantage with 38 wins compared to West Ham's 34, alongside 27 draws. The rivalry is more than just football; it reflects territorial pride divided by the River Thames, pitting South East London's Millwall against East London's West Ham.
Origins in Shipyard Rivalries
Their feud dates back to the late 1800s when Millwall Rovers and Thames Ironworks (later West Ham United) were just three miles apart. Both clubs’ fan bases came from dockworkers competing for contracts along the Thames. Tensions flared notably during the 1926 general dockers strike, especially when Millwall workers broke the strike, fueling resentment across the river. This dispute deepened the social divide between South Bermondsey and East End communities.
Violence and Hooliganism
Over time, the rivalry extended beyond the pitch, with clashes involving West Ham’s Inter City Firm and Millwall’s Bushwackers. Notable dark moments include violent outbreaks at the 1972 Harry Cripps testimonial and the tragic death of Millwall supporter Ian Pratt in 1976. Further sorrow came in 1986 with the killing of West Ham fan Terry Burns, and major riots erupted outside Upton Park in 2009. Since then, heavy police presence has been necessary to keep derby matches safe.
Looking Ahead: The 100th Derby and Beyond
This September's game at The Den will be followed by a return fixture at the London Stadium on 20 February 2027. It’s worth noting that Millwall haven't beaten West Ham at home since May 1979, adding extra significance to this milestone meeting. Both clubs are eager to put football first while acknowledging the intense passion behind this historic city derby.
- Date: 19 September 2026
- Venue: The Den (Millwall's home ground)
- Next Meeting: 20 February 2027 at London Stadium
- Total Meetings: 100 (including upcoming match)
- Previous Results: Millwall wins - 38, West Ham wins - 34, Draws - 27
