Travis Gordon enjoys ‘unbelievable campaign’ with Rotherham Titans

Rotherham Titans flanker-cum-centre Travis Gordon believes his side’s title-winning campaign has been built on connection as much as quality after sealing promotion back to the second tier.

Gordon and his teammates got the job done at Clifton Lane last weekend, edging out title rivals Blackheath and Plymouth Albion to clinch automatic promotion and the National One crown with a hard-fought win over Sale FC in front of a packed home crowd.

He told The Rugby Paper: “It was something we were definitely aiming for, even if we didn’t speak about it too much.

“With Harvey (Biljon, below), it’s always about the next game, but looking back, it’s what the club has been striving towards. To finally get it done is really exciting.”

Special

Victory on home soil made the moment even more special, with the Clifton Lane faithful turning out in force.

“It’s always special at Clifton Lane,” he said. “But having that crowd there, the whole community behind us, it was unbelievable.

“It couldn’t have been a better way to finish what has been a great season.”

Sale FC pushed the Titans all the way in a 34-26 contest that lived up to its billing, with Gordon insisting it became a battle of attrition.

“We knew Sale were going to be tough,” Gordon added. “They showed their class the week before at Plymouth, so we expected a big test.

“It turned into a bit of a dog- fight, but the boys stuck to what we’ve done all season.”

Going over: Travis Gordon scoring for Rotherham Titans

PICTURES: Gareth Siddons

Adaptation

Gordon’s own campaign has been one of adaptation, having switched into the centres – a move that has accelerated his development.

“It’s been unbelievable,” he said. “Changing position has brought new challenges but also a lot of opportunity.

“I’ve enjoyed it and feel like I’ve grown a lot as a player this year.”

The South African has also enjoyed a memorable year away from rugby, getting married back home in January before returning to south Yorkshire to complete the promotion push.

“It’s been a great year on and off the pitch,” he added. “When things are going well off the field, it definitely helps on it.”

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Culture

At the heart of Rotherham’s success is a culture driven by head coach Biljon, with Gordon highlighting the bond within the squad.

“It’s a special group,” said Gordon. “It feels more like a group of mates playing rugby together than just a team.

“We know when to be serious and when to enjoy it.”

Attention now turns to life in the Championship, with Gordon relishing the step up after playing a key role in the club’s rebuild.

“That was one of the reasons I came here,” he said. “To help the club get back to the Champ.

“It’s going to be a big challenge, but one we’re really excited for.”

For now, focus shifts to recovery and preparation, with Gordon recently undergoing knee surgery ahead of pre-season.

“There’s a lot of work to be done,” he added. “But it’s about getting the body right and being ready for what’s going to be a faster, more physical league.”