Brotherton wants to forget Twickers heartache
Newport's Steffen Brotherton knows the heartbreak of missing out on a Twickenham final – and the winger never wants to feel that pain again. Newport's Steffen Brotherton knows the heartbreak of missing out on a Twickenham final – and the winger never wants to feel that pain again. The 32-year-old was part of the Newport team that progressed to the EDF Intermediate Cup semi final last season, only to be cruelly dumped out by Chester. Tomorrow Brotherton expects to be in the starting line-up for the Fishes' quarter-final at North One outfit Sheffield Tigers – and he is determined to right the wrongs of last year. For the full story and match preview see today's Shropshire Star
The 32-year-old was part of the Newport team that progressed to the EDF Intermediate Cup semi final last season, only to be cruelly dumped out by Chester.
Tomorrow Brotherton expects to be in the starting line-up for the Fishes' quarter-final at North One outfit Sheffield Tigers – and he is determined to right the wrongs of last year.
"It was massively heart-breaking to get that close and then miss out," he said. "Playing at Twickenham is the dream of every rugby player.
"But we are a better side now with a completely different style.
"Bletch (coach Ian Bletcher) has come in with fantastic new ideas and has moved us in the right direction.
"If the conditions are right – if the pitch is dry and good for running – then we are confident that we can win."
Brotherton, a construction manager by day, hung his boots up at the end of last season but swiftly reversed his decision when Bletcher arrived at the club.
Now he believes that he has at least one more season in his tank – and an appearance at Twickenham could hardly be a better way to start the winding down process.
He added: "I am coming to the latter part of the career so to play on the hallowed turf of Twickers would be awesome."
