Vengeful Cherub makes his mark

Cherub reversed JCB Triumph Hurdle form with Made In Japan after a thrilling finish to the Colm McEvoy Auctioneers Champion 4YO Hurdle.

Jonjo O’Neill’s charge had finished fourth behind Philip Hobbs’ runner at Cheltenham but managed to open his account in this €110,000 Grade One contest.

It was a close call with Cherub (14-1) getting the nod by a short head from the 9-2 chance, under a strong ride from Tony Dobbin.

A delighted O’Neill said: “He’s run very well – travelled and jumped great. He’s still a novice so we’ll stay novicing with him.

“He ran a lovely race first time out and he was then beaten by Tusk and ran well again at Cheltenham.

“He then disappointed at Aintree. I don’t really know why but a few of mine had a bit of flu.”

Johnson said of Made In Japan: “We were a bit tight after four out but we have no excuses really.”