ILR after breaking 180 days of continuos residence

Hi All,
I'm under work general visa tier 2 since March 2014 working for the same employer and intending to apply for a ILR by the end of the month. Due to the nature of my job (Consulting) I travel extensively and I broke the 180-continous residence rule once in 2016 because of it. I have been advised to apply anyway and rely on the discretion of the HO showing that travel is material to my employment. I understand that absences due to employment are counted to the 180 day maximum each year.

Have you experienced or heard of any similar case where the ILR was granted besides breaking this rule?
Is there any chance I can get it?

Please advise.
Thanks.
Fernando