COUGARS make the trip up to Workington on Sunday determined to keep their 100 per cent league record, boosted by the National Under-21 call-up of Danny Ekis.

After clocking up four opening victories over Hunslet, London Skolars, Chorley and York they know they have a real chance to tuck another win.under their belts against a side which has only won once so far this term -- but coach Gary Moorby is taking nothing for granted.

"I've rarely been involved in anything but a tough encounter in Cumbria in all my career. Teams from that part of the world are always difficult to beat at home and I don't believe this game will be any different.

"Workington were naming their new coach this week and that usually gives the players a lift as they seek to impress. We need to continue to build on recent performances and our forwards will have to be prepared to dominate their six -- if we do that we have the backs to win the game," Moorby said.

On Wednesday former Wigan and Great Britain forward Billy McGinty was confirmed as the new coach at Workington. He played with Town after leaving Wigan in 1994, but has recently been working in rugby union as defensive coach with Sale and Worcester.

He was assistant to Wigan coach Frank Endacott and is determined to make a name in his own right.

But he has his own headache as top scorer Karl Long was suspended for three matches after being found guilty of butting during Workington's defeat by Chorley.

In contrast spirits in the Cougar camp have been given a huge boost with the news that Ekis has been called up for the National League Under-21 squad that is to play two representative games against Super League Under-21s. The first game is on Tuesday, June 10, and the second will be a curtain-raiser to the Arriva Cup Final.

Moorby said: "I'm delighted for Danny and for the club, he has been outstanding for us recently. Whitehaven coach Steve Macormack is to take charge of the squad and when he rang for my opinion about Danny I had no hesitation in recommending him.

"Paul Moses and I have done some one-to-one coaching with Danny and his response has been rewarded with this news.

"I think the fact that Cougars have a player selected for a representative game after all the troubles of the past demonstrates how far we have come over the last two seasons."

However, Ricky Helliwell is unlikely to play this weekend with a sore knee which has suddenly got worse. He is due to see club doctor Phil Pew who will decide what action is needed.

Max Tomlinson could also be out for 3 to 4 weeks after pulling a hamstring in training.

"I feel for Max because he has been working very hard in training and was beginning to look really sharp," Moorby said.

Lee Patterson returned to training following ligament problems and is likely to be in the squad and Mick Durham is back at Keighley after his loan spell at Swinton is expected to be in the 17-strong squad.

n There are still places available on a supporters' coach going to Workington on Sunday. It will leave Cougar Park about 10.15am, contact Richard Greasley on 07810-261-226.