Big Two Share Lexus Favouritism

Cashmans have installed totesport Cheltenham Gold Cup hero War Of Attrition and race specialist Beef Or Salmon as the 6-4 joint-favourites for the Lexus Chase at Leopardstown on December 28.

The former found Michael Hourigan's charge, three times a winner of the Lexus, just too strong when the pair last clashed at Down Royal back in November before finishing second to In Compliance over two and a half miles last time.

Former classy hurdler Back In Front stands his ground along with Sher Beau, Southern Vic and Noel Meade's Wild Passion, who would be having his first attempt over three miles if lining up at the Dublin venue.

The JP McManus-owned L'Ami is set to represent Francois Doumen, while British hopes rest solely on the shoulders of Robert Alner's grey The Listener, who returned to the fray with an encouraging second to a race-fit Star De Mohaison in a graduation event at the start of the month.

Reflecting on that performance and upon his current well-being, Alner said: 'He's absolutely fine and I was delighted with the ride Andrew (Thornton) gave him at Sandown last time.

'Having fallen the last twice last season it was important to get round and he ran really well against a good horse.

'He did nothing wrong and he's definitely come on for the run as we knew he would.

'He'll love the soft going and he needs that ? it can't be too soft for him.'

Alner is hopeful of a bold show but holds a great deal of respect for the big two.

'Beef Or Salmon has won the race three times and he's obviously shown himself to be in great form as he won a hurdle race last week,' he continued.

'War Of Attrition has just been getting fit. He possibly wouldn't like the soft going but he'd be fitter now than on his previous run and I'm sure they're aiming to get him spot-on for March rather than December.'

(C) PA Sport