After scoring the final goal of Rovers’ successful 2017-18 promotion campaign, Huddersfield Town loanee Jack Payne, spoke to the clubs’ media team, following the Blues’ 2-1 victory over Payne’s former club, Oxford United, regarding his delight after achieving his third career promotion – with his first being with Southend United and his second being with Huddersfield Town. The 23-year old also praised the squad’s efforts throughout the season, whilst also touching upon what experience he gained from playing in with Rovers this season.
“I’m really happy with my goal today, as it was the perfect way to finish the season. I couldn’t be happier with my instant impact following the goal against my old team Oxford. Scoring goals is the best feeling ever and I’m more than happy to have been able to contribute towards the team picking up the 3 points, to end the season on a high. The goal took a while to come for me, and I was hoping that it would have come sooner, but I’m glad that it eventually came before the season was out.
“I was speaking to some of the Oxford lads before the game, having a bit of banter, but it was good to see them as I really enjoyed my time at their club, however sentiments aside, the most important thing from today was the 3 points that Blackburn Rovers achieved and I’m glad that I played a part in securing them.
“Getting the victory was the perfect way to round off the campaign, following an amazing season. We’ve had a positive season and that was shown by the attendance today. It’s really pleasing to send the fans home happy as they created a special atmosphere that seemed very intimidating for Oxford. By sitting on the bench for most of the game, I was able to look around and soak in the atmosphere that the crowd created, because as a player, it does give you a lift and I can say that on behalf of the whole squad, so hopefully we get more of the same next season.”
Payne was questioned as to whether there was some disappointment within the Rovers camp, despite their successful season, following Wigan’s crowning as the League 1 champions after they beat Doncaster Rovers, 1-0.
“Of course, there’s a disappointment amongst the players, as it would have been nice to have come out on top, but we set out to gain promotion, and we’ve managed to achieve that. Although it would have been nice to have ended the season, top of the pile, we’re delighted with having achieved our main aim. We’ve both had amazing seasons, which can be seen by the respective points tallies and both thoroughly deserve to go up, however, we need to look at the positives and ready ourselves to hopefully, make an impact next season in the Championship.
“I’ve enjoyed my football this season. This season has been the most I’ve played in my career, and it’s been perfect for me to score the final goal of a promotion winning campaign. Playing for this club has been a great experience for me and to score in-front of the Blackburn End, is amazing for me as I felt like my first goal for Rovers wasn’t coming. Thankfully, however, in the end, the ball managed to find its way through. I had a good chance away at Charlton last week, that I should have scored, which then put doubts in my mind about whether I was going to find the back of the net, but now that it has come after such a long wait, I’m thrilled.”
