KEIGHLEY are not setting their sights too high in Division Two of the JCT600 Bradford League this season.

The league's leading all-rounder Richard Robinson is virtually out of the equation due to his new job as Yorkshire Academy groundsman at Weetwood, while brothers Joe and Tom Stead and Freddie Pearson have joined Steeton.

"A top-half finish is the aim," admitted the Lawkholme Lane side's first-team captain Richard Wear, who will at least have his younger brother Andrew available after his recruitment from Harden.

Keighley, who open the new league season at Morley on Saturday, could also promote Alex Towler and Hammy Shahzad from the second team – at home to Hanging Heaton – to add experience.

"Richard has virtually been discounted because of his new job – and if he is available at all, which will be a bonus, it is likely to be on Sundays," said Wear.

"We are hoping that Andrew will contribute with bat and ball but it could be that nine of our 11 usual first-teamers will be under-25."

The skipper added: "Joe, Tom and Freddie go to Steeton with our blessing and we thank them for what they have done for Keighley. But it will give an opportunity for some of the youngsters we have signed."

Among the teenage influx are Billy Whitford, George Heartfield and James Rogers from Cullingworth, plus Martin Walker from Bradford & Bingley.

However, the club are not signing an overseas player to replace Australian bowler Andrew King.

Wear explained: "It was as much a logistical problem as anything, such as finding him somewhere to live. But again the slot that he leaves could give a youngster a chance."

Keighley warmed-up last weekend with their expected comfortable victory over Airedale, with Andrew Wear getting a half-century and Heartfield impressing with bat and ball.