Rotherham Titans strive for strong start to 2022/23 season

Ready to go: Rotherham Titans players and staff.

ROTHERHAM Titans are being urged to get out of the traps quickly when they kick off the new season this weekend.

Titans take on Yorkshire rivals Harrogate at Clifton Lane tomorrow in National Two North.

After finishing third last season, Rotherham want to top the pile and win promotion this time, but can’t afford many slips.

“I know it’s a very old adage but it’s this time of year when leagues are won,” said head coach Adam Byron.

“If you want to come out on top you have to perform from the off so it is really important to get points on the board.

“Harrogate struggled last year but out of all the teams, they really tested us in the scrums. I will be interested to see how well they’ve recruited over the summer.

“If we want to win this league, we have to go into games like this with confidence. The only outcome we want is a (five-try) bonus-point win. That’s the attitude we have to have.”

Zak Poole retains the team captaincy. The popular back-row has worn the armband since 2019 and will have a new vice captain in Harry Dunne.

“Zak did a great job last year and has a very good reputation amongst the boys and is a very good leader,” added Byron.

“It is the first time Dunney has had the (vice captain) responsibility but he's a real voice the boys look up to and he is wise for his age.

“We look forward to working with both of them.”

Kick-off tomorrow is 2pm.