Moscow Flyer Nov’ Hurdle (Grade 2) 31st January Preview

Sunday’s Moscow Flyer Novice Hurdle at Punchestown features a rematch of the principals from the Paddypower.com Novices Hurdle at Leopardstown over Christmas. On that occasion Hollo Ladies just got the better of front running Saludos with Luska Lad back in fourth.

The last flight was omitted in Leopardstown on the day and it has been argued that Saludos would have hung on for victory if they had had the extra obstacle to negotiate. Jessica Harringtons 5-y-o had to give the winner 3Ibs on that occasion but now receives 6Ibs. With the 9 Ibs turnaround for less than half a length the Harrington runner should prove capable of coming out on top on Sunday.

Luska Lad has been disappointing on his last couple of outings and there seems no reason why he should finish ahead of the other two here. Start Me Up and Shane Rock are both useful novices but have shown nothing to date to suggest they should trouble the principals. If there is to be an upset the ex flat stayer Royal and Regal is the one most likely to test the front two.

Summary: In what looks a rematch of Leopardstowns grade one at Christmas Saludos has everything in his favour and should make all to see off Hollo Ladies and the dark horse Royal And Regal.

Punchestown also host the Grade C Grand National Trail Handicap Chase on Sunday. Rock Diplomat is put forward as an eachway selection here. Michael Cunninghams 10-y-o ran his best race last season when runner up to Ballytrim here over 3m 6f on heavy ground and will have ideal conditions on Sunday. He hinted at a return to form when staying on in third last time out and can make the frame at least. The former high class hurdler O’Muircheartaigh looks the biggest danger in a wide open renewal.