Coelho can atone for last week’s shock defeat

PAULO COELHO, in the wars when a beaten favourite last week, can set the record straight in the second semi final of the Kudos Super Sprint at Curraheen Park tonight.

The track record holder (17.40) was hampered at the opening bend last time, finishing third in 18.04.

Paulo Coelho is a class-act, boasting a record of 13 wins from 19 starts, and a switch to the inside should see him bounce back at the main expense of Mabels Dilemma.

Successul in seven of his 12 outings, Gerry Holian’s ace impressed when posting a 17.72 effort last week.

He is clearly a speedy sort but will need to do everything right to overcome a three draw for the second week in succession.

The opening semi final looks best left to Jo The Dog.

Francie Murray’s 10-times winner was always in control when landing the odds in 17.66 and should prove a tough nut to crack.

The fast-improving Rossa Pegasus can land the Kasco Stakes decider. This fellow produced a flying finishing when carding 28.53 in the opening round and was again doing his best work in the closing stages when following up in 28.70 in the semis.

Rossa Pegasus had Hammered, a 29.00 winner last time, two and a half lengths behind on his penultimate start, and can confirm the placings here. Greenville Team, unlucky when beaten by the narrowest of margins in 29.18 at Clonmel last week, can gain compensation in heat two of the Kieran Dineen Memorial 550 Trophy.

Selections

1st race: Mauras Dream (Shanakiel Tiger)

2nd race: Bravo Blue (Top Villa)

3rd race: Dubai Sensation (Kaylens Fault)

4th race: Greenville Team (Seagull Rock)

5th race: Ballydaly Taurus (Angel Pacific)

6th race: Luddys Pick (Coulombs Joy)

7th race: Jo The Dog (Own Classic)

8th race: Paulo Coelho (Mabels Dilemma)

9th race: Rossa Pegasus (Hammered)

10th race: Sinabhfuilbertie (Mars Prince)

11th race: Goblet of Fire (Deejay Ninetysix)