1st - €21,000.00 2nd - €7,000.00 3rd - €3,500.00 4th - €1,750.00 5th - €1,050.00 6th - €700.00 Fine

FormscanBy Tom Weekes - ECHOES IN RAIN might prove best in what looks a sub-standard Grade 2 contest, with four-timer chasing Streets Of Doyen dropping markedly in trip. Free-going ECHOES IN RAIN won easily at Naas in December and while soundly enough held in a Punchestown Grade 2 last month, did set a searching pace before managing a respectable fourth with today's similarly classed race, over an ideal trip which is shorter than two miles, appearing a lesser ask. Streets Of Doyen chases a four-timer in first-time cheek-pieces and while he has plenty ability, all his recent form has been at three-miles. Today is his first run since October and could act as a springboard to the Albert Bartlett at Cheltenham. Desir Du Large is interesting given he reappears at Grade 2 level on his first run for 820 days. A good bumper winner when last seen, he has clearly met setbacks since and while now an 8yo, connections might feel his novice status is worth preserving on the chance he doesn't win at Graded level in the coming months. Razzle Dazzle Love is another free-going mare who has been running consistently well in recent times and while she is vulnerable to smart types, can get involved. Jesse Evans failed to compete at Grade 1 level recently but is a capable type who will appreciate today's drop in grade. Belfast Banter and Mighty Tom need to improve to win.

A novice hurdle for four years old and upwards
Weights - 4-y-o 10st 6lbs 5-y-o 11st 5lbs 6-y-o and up 11st 6lbs Mares allowed 7lbs
Penalties - Penalties (handicaps excluded) - Winner of three hurdle races or a Grade 3 hurdle race 3lb extra Of two Grade 3 hurdle races or a Grade 2 hurdle race 6lb extra Of a Grade 1 hurdle race 8lb extra