Macorville team in Philosophical mood

George Moore believes it was a case of “swings and roundabouts” after Macorville’s narrow defeat in the John Smith’s Northumberland Plate.

The Leyburn handler was bidding for back-to-back victories in the Newcastle feature after Toldo’s neck success over River Alhaarth in 2006.

However, Macorville was beaten just a short head by Juniper Girl in a driving finish and Moore is taking a philosophical view.

“We only won by a neck last year so I suppose it’s swings and roundabouts,” he said.

“You’ve just got to take it on the chin and we were just beaten by the better horse on the day.”

Macorville, who was a four-time winner last term, could be set for a quick return to action with Moore eyeing a run at Haydock next week.

“He’s come back fantastic. We’re very pleased with him, he’s eaten up and is as sound as a pound,” he added.

“He looks in good order and we will look at the Old Newton Cup for him now as long as everything stays right.

“He loves this bit of cut and we want to get one more run into him before he has a break.

“We’ll bring him back for the autumn then and see where we are.”