Brown is latest coup for Cougars

6:30pm Friday 10th October 2008

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The Cougars have again demonstrated their intent for 2009 by capturing another National League One performer – Sheffield Eagles star Craig Brown.

Boss Barry Eaton has persuaded the powerful Bradford-born second-rower to drop down a level as Keighley go in search of promotion next season.

“Craig’s our third signing from National League One and hopefully that sends out the right message to our fans,” he said.

“We’re not wanting to rest on our laurels after this year; we want to take that next step and he should make us stronger in our bid to do that.

“Craig’s a real no-nonsense type who’s been a very consistent performer in that division for a number of years.

“He’s fit, hard, can play second row or front row and he just goes about his business.

“I spoke to him 12 months ago but he wanted to stay with Sheffield for another a year in League One.

“It’s a different story now though and we’ve persuaded him to come here to Keighley so I’m delighted.”

Brown, 27, started out with the Bulls as a promising junior and was highly-rated by then boss Brian Smith.

However, he never made Super League grade at Odsal and switched to the Eagles where he carved out a career in the semi-pro ranks.

He made 18 appearances last season but will now bolster the pack of a Keighley side that finished joint-fourth in National League Two, just four points off automatic promotion.

Brown joins Daley Will-iams (Salford) and Carl Hughes (Featherstone) on the way in, while Eaton has also seen two of his current players – out of contract half-back Craig Fawcett and second-rower Greg Nicholson – agree new deals at Cougar Park for 2009.

“Greg’s probably been one of our most improved players this season so I’m chuffed he’s agreed to stay on here,” he said.

“My only concern with him is – and he won’t mind me saying this – his size.

“Really physical and battling games can sometimes be a factor for Greg but he’s aware of that and knows he has to put some weight on and develop more strength.

“If he can do that, Greg will be a real solid player as he’s already shown signs of his talent this year.”