Rugby League: With just 15 days to kick-off, Keighley Cougars are ready to return to the glory days.

After a disappointing season of re-adjustment last year, the Cougars are preparing to begin the 2003 season on January 19 with Doncaster Dragons the first combatants.

And players and management alike are determined to prove that they are now a force to be reckoned with.

With the new league and cup format in place and a rash of new signings champing at the bit, there is an air of expectation around the town which the Cougars are keen to live up to.

"Everyone is pretty positive around the side," said stand off Adam Mitchell, one of the finds of last season.

"We have all been training hard and there is a good spirit in the team. This is going to be a big year for the club.

"Our goal has to be promotion and I think we have the players to do it." And Mitchell, who has bulked up by a stone after an intensive winter on the weights, believes the return of Cougars legend Jason Ramshaw could be a massive influence on the side.

"Having Rammy around really makes a difference," said Mitchell, who scored 66 points last year in his 13 starts for the side.

"Just those little touches he is capable of, he can win you a game. And with him coming back we can expect a big crowd for the first game, at least a thousand will be there.

"Even though he is not the skipper he leads by example, it is good for everyone to have him around - he is a really positive influence."

Although the Cougars will be looking to make an impact in the Doncaster game, they know the real business begins once the National Cup is out the way and the league season begins.

And on January 26 they take on Thornhill Trojans in the Challenge Cup as they look to earn a place in the fourth round draw and the chance to take on a Super League team.