Championship side Keighley Cougars have applied to go into administration.

The club faced a winding up order by HM Revenue and Customs over an unpaid tax bill on Wednesday. But that has been adjourned until January 27, with the club’s application for administration being heard in court on December 18.

General manager Helen Carter said: (quote) We are exploring every avenue available but we need to take precautions to safeguard the future, I feel confident that the club will continue to strive for success both on and off the field. (end quote)

Keighley are the latest club to be hit by the tough economic conditions, Championship One side Doncaster having entered administration in June. Should Keighley be taken over by the administrators, they are almost certain to begin the new season with a nine-point deduction.