MATTHEW STEEL led a storming first half Cougar display to take a slender lead over Halifax.

But the second period was a one-way procession as the punch drunk Keighley side saw their 18-16 advantage disappear in a flurry of tries.

Halifax knew they needed 22 clear points to go top of the Northern Rail Cup table and get an easier run-in when the competition reached its knockout stage.

In contrast the Cougar side knew they were out of the Cup and playing for pride.

They gave their fans a storming display and kept the Halifax faithful biting their nails until the final hooter despite their runaway second half display.

Moorby's side hit the visitors with a classy early try that left them stunned. Dave Foster powered his way down the right to bring the home outfit within range. Ashton supplied the slick pass for Steel to force his way over with Halifax defenders hanging off him.

When Halifax hit back with converted tries from Pat Weisner and Chris Birchall the early optimism seemed ill-founded, but just three minutes later Matty Firth chipped over the defence, Paul Ashton hacked on and Sam Gardner collected at full pace ahead of the floundering halifax defence. Ashton added his second goal to put Cougars back on level terms.

James Hayley plucked a pass out of the air to edge 'Fax ahead again.

Intense Cougar pressure was rewarded when full back Matt Bramald pounced using his pace and power to force his way over in the corner. Ashton added the touchline conversion to give Keighley an 18-6 lead at the break.

But it was clear the effort of that 40 minutes had taken its toll and Halifax strolled the second half, the only question was whether they could get those 22 clear points they were striving for. Tries from Damien Gibson, Weisner, and Andy Spink put them firmly in command. Ben Black raced clear to score in the corner and added another three minutes later.

Despite the try-parade Cougars just would not give up and Steel burst through on a superbly angled run, stretching out his arm to touch down, Ashton's goal taking the score to 24-38.

Final tries from James hayley and Fereti Tuilagi made certain of top spot for for Halifax - but the Cougar side had not been making up the numbers in a classic contest.

They size and staying power of the Halifax pack gave them the edge, but the Keighley performance gave hope for the season to come.