Rathlin’s progress pleases Morris

A trip to Aintree is one of several options open to Rathlin, who has delighted trainer Mouse Morris by finally showing his true ability over fences.

The seven-year-old was a promising novice hurdler for Philip Rothwell last season, finishing sixth in the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle, but looked a shadow of himself when Morris sent him over fences earlier in the campaign.

But having now won three on the bounce, including Sunday’s Grade Two Nas Na Riogh Novice Chase without coming off the bridle, his future looks bright again.