KEIGHLEY COUGARS co-owners Ryan O’Neill and Kaue Garcia were reassured by coach Ian Hardman’s plan to lead a recovery from the 74-0 home humbling by Newcastle Thunder on Sunday – but say they and the supporters need to see a significant improvement, and soon.

The Yorkshire side visit Goole Vikings on Saturday then host Swinton Lions on Sunday, June 28,  with the microscope firmly on performances and with Hardman trying to reinforce a squad he feels is light on pack power.

The former Featherstone Rovers coaching staff member, pictured, has been at the helm since February, with his now-assistant Danny Burton having been in caretaker control following the eve-of-season departure of Alan Kilshaw, now in charge of divisional rivals Oldham.

Keighley have won three and drawn two of 13 league matches under Hardman, with the Newcastle setback their fourth loss running.

“While Newcastle are a full-time professional side and undoubtedly one of the strongest in the competition, there can be absolutely no excuses for the scale of the defeat,” said the co-owners in a statement.

“The performance and result were simply not acceptable. It was a diabolical outcome, and we fully understand the disappointment, frustration and anger felt by everyone connected with the club.

“We had an honest and frank conversation (with Hardman). He set out his understanding of the reasons for the result, which was fair and considered.

“He gave us a remedial plan on how he and his coaching staff are addressing these issues.

“We left the meeting positive that he is focused on fixing the errors we saw, and his plan is realistic and well thought-out.

“One area he is working on is to strengthen the squad and recruit players to fill key gaps.

“In particular, he identified that we have struggled physically against teams with larger packs, and his recruitment efforts are focused on addressing those areas as a priority.

“The next two league fixtures will now be crucial. They will play a significant role not only in determining our league position for the remainder of the season, but also in rebuilding morale within the squad and restoring trust and confidence among our supporters. We expect to see a positive response.”