Determined Doire does enough at Down Royal

Ireland’s main Aintree hope Dun Doire made hard work of justifying favouritism in the Tennent’s No.1 Chase at Down Royal.

The even-money favourite was all out to hold Romaha by three-quarters of a length in his prep race for the John Smith’s Grand National next month.

Bobby McNally was content to sit at the rear of the six-strong field in the early stages but courted disaster when caught up in a melee eight fences from home.

News Item fell, bringing down Kettysjames and hampering Dun Doire, while Jack Monday was pulled up.

Dun Doire was soon back in the hunt, however, and Tony Martin’s charge made stealthy progress to pass Another Rum before four out and join Romaha at the second last.

The exertions started to take their toll, though, and he just managed to hold Romaha’s late rally.

McNally said: “The ground was very tacky and he pricked his ears going to the last.

“I would’ve liked to have had a lead after the last as he only does just enough.

“That should set him up nicely for Aintree.”