Monolith Plate Bid In The Balance

Len Lungo has his fingers crossed Monolith makes the cut for the John Smith's Northumberland Plate at Newcastle on Saturday.

The Carrutherstown trainer would like another crack at the Gosforth Park feature after springing a 33-1 surprise with Mirjan in 2004.

However, Monolith needs seven horses need to come out to get a place in the £200,000 heritage handicap over two miles.

'If he gets in we're running,' said Lungo.

The nine-year-old, owned by the Elite Racing Club, pleased his trainer when fourth under top weight over two and a quarter miles at Pontefract on Sunday.

'The ground at Pontefract was nice and easy. A horse could let himself down with no risk,' added Lungo.

'I know he was only fourth, but he's a small horse who had top weight and he was trapped on the outside.'

Monolith is generally available at 33-1 for Plate honours.

(C) PA Sport