KEIGHLEY COUGARS have taken halfback Finlay Balback from neighbours Bradford Bulls – and coach Matt Bramald is eager to establish him in first-team rugby.

The 22-year-old came through the Bulls development system and was a Reserves regular this year.

But his only senior outings so far came when he was farmed out to Hunslet in 2025 and featured four times in the Championship.

Recently-appointed Bramald (pictured), who also has experienced halfback Matty Beharrell on the books, said: “Finlay is a young player I’m really excited to work with.

“There’s potential there, and our job is to help him turn that into performances at senior level.

“He wants to learn and push himself, which gives us a good starting point. With a full pre-season, support from the coaching staff and experienced teammates around him, I’m looking forward to seeing how he develops.

“He’ll have the opportunity to compete for his place and show us what he can do.”

Head of rugby operations Richard Dibbin added: “I’m really pleased we’ve been able to bring Finlay here.

“From speaking to him, it was clear this decision was about his rugby development and finding the right opportunity to move forward.

“Matty and I really wanted him. He’s given his next step a lot of thought, and we’re delighted he sees his future here.

“There’s something exciting about bringing a young player in and seeing what they can become. I’m looking forward to watching Finlay’s progress in a Cougars shirt.”

Keighley have also signed up outside back Ollie Greensmith from Batley Bulldogs, forward Isaac Coleman from Rochdale Hornets and Sheffield eagles duo, winger Jayden Billy and forward Marcus Green, as he aims for an improvement on this year’s 16th-place finish under Ian Hardman.