Cross takes dramatic Leopardstown feature

Golden Cross gained a hard-fought win under Johnny Murtagh in the Leopardstown November Handicap.

The six-year-old, trained by Mick Halford, overtook long-time leader Solerina a furlong out but appeared to hamper the prolific mare as he grabbed the rail and it was no surprise when a stewards' inquiry was called.

Following the inquiry, Golden Cross kept the race but Solerina was disqualified after her 5lb claiming apprentice Chris Geoghegan weighed in incorrectly. Irish Cesarewitch winner Clara Allen was promoted to third.

The race lost some of its gloss minutes before the off when Beef Or Salmon was withdrawn on veterinary advice, with another smart National Hunt performer Essex being taken out earlier in the day.

Solerina was soon in front and kicked on entering the straight but she was challenged by Golden Cross (7-1), who was about a length clear when appearing to cause interference.

Solerina had to be switched to the outside to renew her effort and had to settle for third as Virginia Woolf ran on to finish runner-up, a neck behind the winner.

Golden Cross had gained his finest hour over hurdles on this course when springing a 66-1 shock in the December Festival Hurdle two years ago.