Rotherham Titans
Rotherham Titans’ Clifton Lane ground is another one where the first impression can be slightly confusing. The main stand is behind the posts rather than along the side of the pitch, which isn't some strange bit of rugby-ground planning but the result of the pitch having been rotated through 90 degrees to meet the requirements for Championship rugby. It certainly gives the ground a slightly unusual appearance, but there is method behind the madness and it means the Titans have been able to bring the ground up to the required standard.
The £25 admission price is fairly typical of Championship rugby, although there is one rather old-fashioned quirk – admission is cash only. So don't arrive expecting to wave your phone or contactless card at the turnstile.
Once you're actually inside, however, Rotherham suddenly jumps several decades into the 21st century, because cards can be used for purchases around the ground. It's slightly bizarre having to remember to get cash out just to get through the gate, but at least you know in advance.
The clubhouse is definitely worth making a beeline for, particularly if you're hungry. The food is proper homemade stuff, rather than the standard selection of mass-produced rugby-ground fayre that seems to be increasingly common. The homemade pie deserves a particular mention: it's well filled, tasty and substantial, and comes at a price that doesn't require you to take out a second mortgage.And thank goodness for that, because I'm getting increasingly fed up with the ubiquitous Pukka Pie appearing at rugby grounds (Other rubbish pies are available). There's nothing particularly wrong with a Pukka Pie when you're desperate, but when it's being presented as the main food option at a sporting venue, it really isn't much to get excited about. Rotherham's homemade pie is in a completely different league – proper food, properly filled and, most importantly, reasonably priced.
The clubhouse also has that genuine rugby-club feel which is becoming harder to find as more grounds become increasingly corporate. There is no pretence that you're entering some sort of five-star sporting arena; you're there to watch rugby, have something decent to eat and drink, and enjoy the atmosphere.
Clifton Lane may not have the polished appearance of some of the newer and larger grounds, but that isn't necessarily a criticism. There is something rather appealing about a traditional rugby club that has adapted its facilities to meet modern requirements without losing its identity. The slightly unusual layout simply becomes part of the character of the place.For a Championship matchday, Rotherham Titans delivers what you really want: competitive rugby, a proper clubhouse, friendly surroundings and food that is considerably better than it has any right to be for the price.
Just remember the golden rule – take cash for the entrance, but leave the cards in your wallet once you're through the gate. They'll work perfectly well inside.
A traditional rugby club with a modern twist, an unusual pitch layout and, most importantly, a cracking homemade pie.
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