Broadstrand looks a likely lad

DOLORES Ruth is responsible for the favourite in both semi-finals of the College Causeway/Killahan Phanter Easter Cup at Shelbourne Park this evening and while both look likely to qualify for next week's final they will need to be on their toes to emerge on top this evening.

There was exciting news concerning the Easter Cup final yesterday when it was confirmed that Sky Sports will show the race live in their programme from the Scottish Derby final at Shawfield. The Shelbourne race will be shown live at 9.45 before returning to the Scottish venue for their classic final at 10.10 pm.

Makeshift has the best of the draw in the opening heat this evening and after returning to his best in his latest start is certain to have plenty of support. His task is less than easy however with Broadstrand Lad, Tyrur Carey and Cian Abbey all capable of going close. Much will of course depend on the start, but slight preference goes to Broadstrand Lad.

The John Linehan trained powerhouse missed the kick in his last two outings, but he can really fly to the turn. Should he return to his fast starting ways he would be very difficult to contain.

In the second heat Dolores Ruth's Razldazl George also has a favourite's chance, but he too may have to settle for a supporting role. The reason for this is not down to the strength of opposition, but the draw.

From trap one it is unknown how Razldazl George will start and should he make any mistakes, however small, he could find himself short of room with recent Tote Gold Cup winner Slippery Bob likely to move inwards from trap two.

If Slippery Bob happened to turn in front he wouldn't be overtaken before the third turn and he would prove difficult to reel in on the run in. In short, if Razldazl George is to win he must come out at least on terms with Slippery Bob. Of the others in the line up Mozzletoff is perhaps the biggest threat to the big two.

There is a top class supporting card on offer at Shelbourne Park, although the real highlight is the concluding open 550 where Tyrur Big Mike is the star attraction. Last year's Champion Stakes and Derby runner up produced a stunning effort last weekend and he will again start a warm favourite to add to his impressive tally despite the presence of some notable rivals including the much touted Razldazl Jayfkay.

The latter will be facing his stiffest test yet, but don't underestimate his chances. Thrown in for good measure are fast starters Quick Lee and Asisola and big finishers St Mullins Pride and Master Blaster, but in reality it would be a surprise if Tyrur Big Mike didn't emerge triumphant.

Over at Shawfield tonight the semi-finals of the Scottish Derby will be run and they could thrown up an Owen McKenna double via Pablo Supreme (9.16) and Farloe Force (9.29).

The complete second round of the Red Mills Produce Stakes will dominate tomorrow's action at Clonmel and all eyes will be on the inexperienced Spearhawk as he bids to follow up his stunning opening round victory in Heat 3.

The Craig Kelly-trained youngster was having just his fourth career start when he raced clear of a good field to post a superb 28.46 last weekend and a similar effort this evening would almost certainly see him come home well clear again. Crossfield Jet and Piercestown Sand are the main dangers.

The round kicks off with a real bang with four first round heat winners clashing in the opening heat: Colourful Bolt, Colorful Marco, Tarbrook Texan and Power Charge.

Of the quartet Colourful Bolt was perhaps the most impressive last week, but he will need to be foot-perfect to follow up here.

Incidentally don't rule out Shelbourne Geoff in this contest. He may have suffered defeat in his opening round heat, but he has the pace to make them all run.