Thurles 29/01

[RuleBritannia]

3:05 - ScotsIrish WIN Tough race to call, with on paper very little between most of the principals. Scotsirish, goes from the in form Willie Mullins yard, and sets the benchmark for this race after a 16L disposal of Cailin Alainn 6 weeks ago at Cork. The 5th that day, Schindlers Hunt has since gone on to win a Grade A race against some very good opposition. One Cool Cookie holds Knight Legend on their run LTO, and their should be no reason for Knight Legend to reverse that form, Glenfinn Captain brings some decent runs and some solid form to the table but has never run at Thurles, which is a worry. He also beat One Cool Cookie in Nov by 7 1/2 L but gets a 5lb pull today, so may be able to get closer. Cailin Alainn has done nothing of note, since beating Alexander Taipan in her only start here last March.Showed some signs of a return to form, when a distant 2nd to Scotsirish LTO. A big run expected, but an unreliable sort to have as a selection. Kilcrea Castle is interesting at a bigger price. Ran a cracker LTO, and is bound to take heart from that run, and rates as an obvious danger for a place. Don't think he is good enough to win, but can certainly place. The rest have something to find, and in theory shouldnt be good enough to even go close. Brings us back to Scotsirish, who has the most solid form in the field. 3rd and 2nd in his only 2 starts at this course. Has won 2 of his last 5 races, against some decent company, and can justify favouritism and also confirm his standing as a Cheltenham contender, by scoring here. My Bets ScotsIrish - 5 Points Win. Kilcrea Castle - 2.5 Points E/W