Compliance Favourite For Hennessy

In Compliance has been installed as the 6-4 favourite by Ladbrokes for what promises to be a fascinating Irish Hennessy Cognac Gold Cup on Saturday week.

Michael O'Brien's charge reinforced the high opinion in which he is held by lowering the colours of reigning Gold Cup hero War Of Attrition when last seen back in November.

That impressive triumph saw him enter calculations for this year's blue riband at the Cheltenham Festival but he will have his mettle tested further at Leopardstown, where Lexus Chase winner The Listener and Beef Or Salmon are among the likely opposition.

The former is next in the market at 2-1, while Michael Hourigan's stable star is available at 3s.

Ladbrokes spokesman David Williams said: 'This will be the acid test for In Compliance to determine whether or not he comes to the Festival.

'If he handles the trip and conditions, he'll go there as a big player.

'It's got the shape of a fascinating renewal and we've always been big fans of In Compliance so we're keen to keep him onside.

'There appeared to be nothing false about the Lexus result over Christmas so the prices of the two most likely challengers duly reflect that form.

'We're less sweet about Hedgehunter with no runs yet over fences this year. Ruby Walsh will be at Newbury (riding Kauto Star) and he looks to be up against it.'

(C) PA Sport