Towell Reflects On Unforgettable Occasion

Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Richie Towell admitted that winning promotion at Wembley Stadium with Rotherham United was something he’ll never forget, after the Irishman helped the Millers reach the second tier of English football.

The Albion loanee played 120 minutes in the SkyBet League One Play-Off Final against Shrewsbury Town, and he reflected on a memorable occasion which saw the Yorkshire side win 2-1 in extra time.

He said, “It was amazing, playing at such a great stadium on such a big occasion. You work really hard to achieve something like that, so when you actually do it, there’s no better feeling.

“I never thought I’d get the chance to play at Wembley. Not many people get the chance to play there. To win and get promoted was something I’ll never forget.

“I’ve had a lot of highs in football but also a lot of lows - but I’d put this achievement right up there with getting promoted with Brighton the year before.

“It was a great day, not just for myself but also for my family who were at Wembley. It’s an occasion I’ll always remember.”

Towell made 46 appearances for the Millers across all competitions - scoring six goals - and the midfielder expressed his delight after playing regular football for the Championship newcomers.

“I’ve really enjoyed it at Rotherham. When I spoke to Chris Hughton before I went out on loan, the main thing was to get as much game time as I could.

“When you don’t play for such a long period, people start to forget about you. For me, it was all about getting out there and playing football - I did that at Rotherham.

“The gaffer was great with me, he trusted me a lot and played me in nearly every game. He told me what his plans were and the end goal was to get promoted. To help them achieve that was great.”

The 26-year-old played in all three play-off matches for Paul Warne’s team, claiming two assists, and he reflected on the unselfish role he played for the Millers throughout the season.

“I’ve probably altered the way that I play a little bit. We played with two in the middle at Rotherham, and I was playing a little bit deeper which probably suited me better.

“I didn't get as many goals as I would have liked, but sometimes you have to sacrifice your own goals for the team goals.

“My aim was to get promoted, and if that meant not scoring an extra five or six goals, then it was well worth it.”

Towell also commented on Albion’s debut season in the Premier League, and the close relationship that remains with his team-mates on the south coast.

“All of the boys have been texting me - Bruno, Siddy, Duffers, Dunky, Connor - all of the boys have been great.

“I sent them all a text when they beat Manchester United to stay up. I have a lot of really close friends at Brighton and we always stay in contact.

“I really enjoyed watching the lads play this season. It was great to see them go out and hold their own in the Premier League. It’s a really good club and it’s always making the right steps forward.”