Clopf justified favouritism in the vcbet.com Hurdle at Punchestown yesterday, but had to work ever so hard under Barry Geraghty to land the wagers, writes Pat Keane.

AMARETTO ROSE’S main obstacle ahead of the Anglo Irish Bank Supreme Novices’ Hurdle could be her lack of match practice, according to handler Nicky Henderson.

Nicky Henderson’s Amaretto Rose will face 21 rivals in the Anglo Irish Bank Supreme Novices’ Hurdle.

ERIC MCNAMARA’S Larkwing booked his place at Cheltenham with a smooth success in the Bothar Hibernian Maiden Hurdle at Limerick yesterday.

CHELTENHAM Gold Cup third Forget The Past produced a sparkling display of jumping and staying power to land the MacLochlainn Road Markings Ltd Kinloch Brae Chase at Thurles yesterday.