Like it or not, back in the days before Stupid League, Keighley provided the template for the future of Rugby League in the UK. Cougarmania took what had always been a try-hard club to the brink of the big time - only for the big-time to say ‘no thanks’.

The pereceived decline of the Cougars since then has been unpleasant to watch - severe financial difficulties, changes of owner, the loss of virtually a whole team - and having to suffer Steve Deakin as coach - have all taken their toll. But it’s not all bleak.

Keighley are still drawing bigger crowds than they were pre-Cougarmania and, whilst they currently sit 14th in the table, don’t be misled by their lowly position.

Having recently fallen just short in a dramatic comeback against the Biffs and going down just 14-10 last week at Hull KR, signs are that the revival is well underway.

Indeed the Cougars’ coach - ex-Halifax assistant Gary Moorby - has added impetus to the cause by signing Blue Sox flyer Oli Marns on a month’s loan.

Having rebuilt the side from the ground- up, Moorby has put together what looks like a durable, work-hard outfit bound by good team spirit - often a good enough combination to take you a long way inthe NFP.

In the squad are two ex-Hornets - Paul Ashton and Danny Fearon - both blessed with pace, good hands and good vision. Better be on our mettle ther, then. Close to fitness after a broken hand, heavy-duty prop Phil Stephenson could also be in contention for a return on Sunday.

Pending the injuries to Danny Wood and Paul Owen in last week’s game against Fev, Hally will probably be looking to field the same side. A possible inclusion could be Dave Larder if Martin feels that we need extra go-forward in the Pack. Most pleasing recently is the re-emergence of Martin Bunce as first team regular.

Buncey’s always given this club 101% and deserves the chance to claim a place in the run in. Positional changes are common in Rugby league, but Buncey’s transformation from winger to prop ( a trip not made by too many - Harvey Howard’s the only other I can think of) has been inspired. His try last week was richly deserved.

Games at Lawkholme Lane are always never less than interesting and this one will be no different. The first of a month on the road, Hornets will be keen to bag as many points as possible. With confidence returning, Keighley will be eyeing what some think is a decent scalp to re-establish their credibility.

Wiith Keighley less than an hour away - and the option of lunch in Hebden Bridge or Howarth en-route - it’s certainly one of the most pleasant away trips of the season. So treat yourself and get over the hill to cheer the lads on. I’m driving back from Bedfordshire for this one - so you’ve no excuse! See you there.