IRISH ANGLE

By Brian Flanagan NAP OF THE DAY

ST CUTHBERT’S CAVE (3.43) represents powerful connections in the 2m3f Maiden Hurdle and can be forgiven for his last run at Clonmel when pulling up lame.

A repeat of the run that saw him finish third in a decent maiden hurdle at Fairyhouse should be good enough here.

Jack Kennedy rode his century of winners at Punchestown last week and needs every winner between now and the end of the season if he’s to pip Paul Townend to the jockey’s championship.

EACH WAY THIEF

PRINCE OF AIR (2.03) has been running consistently in some competitive heats and has a solid each-way chance for Philip Rothwell in the 2m Handicap Chase.

Philip Roth well’s fine season has stalled but he targets these midweek meetings and off a lightweight it’s hard to see this one not involved for the stylish 3lbs claimer and former Irish Grand National winner Paddy O’Hanlon.

ONE TO WATCH

WINNING a beginners’ Chase in Ireland is not easy, even as late in the season as this, and today’s opening 2m contest looks a hot little race.

Zanahiyr has been placed in a Champion Hurdle while Willie Mullins saddles two respected runners.

However, we’re taking a chance on ASPIRE TOWER (1.33). He ran well behind Irish Arkle winner Il Etait Temps on his chasing debut here in November and any drying of the ground should suit the Henry De Bromhead-trained son of Born To Sea.

ONE TO SWERVE

COCO MASTERPIECE (4.48) won a point-topoint and looks the most fancied of Willie Mullins’ runners in the closing bumper.

That win was in

March

2022 and he was last seen finishing third in a three runners point-to-point at Loughanmore.

The Authorized gelding is owned by Simon Munir and Isaac Souede but he’s worth taking on at a short price.