Spes Ultima can go one better
Colm Murphy's charge hinted at possessing some ability in a couple of bumpers last season and was then given a decent holiday, before making his reappearance over flights at Gowran Park last month.
Going off a largely unconsidered 14-1 shot this was far better, with the selection indicating he may be capable of winning a little contest.
The six-year-old was given plenty of time to find his feet by Shay Barry, but came with every chance early in the straight.
He could only stay on at the one pace in the closing stages, however, to finish a length and a half second behind Bisley.
There seems little doubt the form is moderate, but Spes Ultima could come on plenty for the experience and stepping up another two furlongs in trip can only help.
Adrian McGuinness' Breaker Morant should take all the beating in the seven furlongs Ballybride Handicap.
He makes a quick return, having scored by nine lengths at Bellewstown five days ago, and competes here under a mandatory 5lbs penalty.
If the market speaks in favour of Christy Roche's Coconut Beach then he can prove the right one in the Tote Account Handicap Hurdle.
One hopes the best of the former Ballydoyle inmate has yet to be seen over jumps and two recent spins on the level should have Coconut Beach spot-on for this test.
