CHAMPIONS: Batchelor happy to finish strongly (From Swindon Advertiser)

CHAMPIONS: Batchelor happy to finish strongly

10:58am Friday 26th October 2012 in Sport By Andy Warren

TROY Batchelor was pleased to end on a high after making a stuttering start to his return to the Swindon Robins.

The Australian started the year as the club’s number one but soon lost that position to captain Hans Andersen after a difficult start to the campaign, with some fans calling for him to be axed from the team.

But the 25-year-old turned things around to eventually end up playing a pivotal role as the Robins won their first national title since 1967, despite suffering from bronchitis during the grand final second leg victory over Poole.

“I helped us get into the finals and then I did my job in the two legs so I am pleased,” he said.

“It wasn’t great at the start for me but I turned things around, and I am pleased with that.

“It is an amazing achievement for the team because we have worked so hard for this.

“Everyone deserves a massive well done for how they have performed all season, because we have all been great.

“Steady bounced back really well after having some tough times earlier in the season, and he did a good job over both legs in the final to help us get there after a few people questioned him.

“Doyley rode in the team and scored his points in every match and it was brilliant, and Kildemand was awesome too all season-long.

“Hans and I did our jobs too as did Nick, and we had a strong team all the way through unlike Poole.

“It was good to finish the drought of 45 years without any gold medals, and we were pleased to have been able to do it for the fans and everyone at the club.”