Verdict

Quickpick Vic came up against a smart performer when beaten 11 lengths by Owen Mc at Fairyhouse. The winner has defied a penalty in a better race so Tony Martin's charge will be difficult to beat. But Patrick Mullins, who rode him that day, is on board BALLY LONGFORD for his stable here and his mount also came up against a useful performer when runner-up to Curley Bill at Downpatrick. There looks little between the pair this time but it's Willie Mullins' charge who just gets the nod. Mullaghanoe River won a point-to-point in May and didn't run badly on his bumper debut though looked as though he needed further than this. Newcomer Leavethelighton looks one to note for the future as he has a strong jumping pedigree.

Formwatch

Leavethelighton (IRE) Oscar gelding out of Royale Boja.

Quickpick Vic (IRE) 2-1fav (12-0) Took keen hold and tracked leaders, headway to lead briefly under 2f out, soon ridden and headed, kept on same pace without threatening easy winner, 2nd of 6, 11l behind Owen Mc (11-11) at Fairyhouse 2m N H flat sft in Nov.

Red Admirable (IRE) 3-1 (12-0) Pr & disp, hdd 2out, ev ch last, no ex close home, 4th of 11, 5l behind Pocketfullapennies (12-0) at Loughanmore 3m ire ptp hvy.

Bally Longford (IRE) 6-5fav (11-11) Led, headed briefly 6f out, led again and ridden approaching straight, strongly pressed and headed inside final furlong, no chance with winner and kept on same pace, 2nd of 9, 6l behind Curley Bill (11-11) at Downpatrick 2m 2f N H flat sft in Nov.

Craggie Island (IRE) Heron Island gelding out of Kilmore Lady.

Mullaghanoe River (IRE) 9-4 (11-10) Tracked leaders, 6th halfway, pushed along early straight and 5th 2f out, went 2nd 1f out but no chance with easy winner, kept on same pace, 2nd of 8, 11l behind Thunder And Roses (11-10) at Naas 2m 3f N H flat sft in Oct.