Twomey ‘disappointed’ after being axed for nations cup

Show jumper Billy Twomey yesterday described himself as "disappointed" after he was replaced by manager Robert Splaine for tomorrow’s crucial nations cup contest at the Discover Ireland Dublin Horse Show.

Ireland are in a relegation battle in the Furusiyya Series and Splaine cited a dip in form for Twomey’s horse Diaghilev, as he opted to put in US-based Offaly rider Darragh Kenny, who’s proven a hot ticket across Europe in recent weeks.

“Billy has been a fantastic servant to the Irish team and there is much more to come,” said Splaine last night. “Darragh has fantastic recent form, however, which is hard to ignore. We are under no illusions that Friday will be a mammoth task and it is my job to field the best possible team.”