Rotherham Titans delight in home 'five-pointer'

Rotherham despatched Sale FC 31-20 at sun-kissed Clifton Lane on Saturday, running in four tries in the process. The touchdowns from Ben Robbins, Harry Newborn, Anthony Maka and Sam Hollingsworth, who also slotted all four conversions and a penalty, atoned for the opening-day setback at Rosslyn Park.

“It was very pleasing to get five points at home,” said director of rugby Martin Jenkinson. “It was important we got to the end and were able to say ‘the better team won,’ which I think we were.

“The match started with flashes of individual brilliance from Ben Robbins and Sam Hollingsworth in the first half and then when we got on top it was a quality performance to hold the lead. The boys were tired by the end.

Sam Allan gets a pass away to Ben Robbins, one of Rotherham's four try scorers. Pictures by STEVE METTAM

“There are some big, heavy players in the Sale side and it took its toll on our lads and their two late tries made the score more respectable for them.”

Co-coach Anthony Posa added: “We put pressure on ourselves as a unit and as a squad and we got the five points.

“We could have been a bit more clinical – we left two or three scores out there – but there is plenty to go at going forward and the most important thing is that we got the win.”

Rotherham will look to carry on the good work when they make the long trip down to Plymouth Albion on Saturday.

Catch Friday’s Advertiser for a match preview and more from the Sale game.