Down Royal 17:25 - To Finish 2nd

oddschecker Verdict

NOD OF APPROVAL went close in a three-year-old hurdle here last month and his efforts on the Flat prior to that stand up to scrutiny. A creditable fifth in the Apprentice Derby at the Curragh was followed by a keeping-on seventh in a higher grade at Galway. He carries bottom-weight on this occasion and Wayne Lordan is a notable booking. Rakki struck at Tramore and ought to go well for Willie Mullins and Ben Coen, while Flying Fortress hasn't been beaten far on his last two outings at Roscommon and is another leading contender. Earthsong won over further at Gowran Park two starts ago and is more than capable of getting involved too.

Prediction: 1st Nod Of Approval, 2nd Rakki, 3rd Flying Fortress