Grey grabs spoils on line

The Tote Jackpot Rollover Chase at Thurles produced a thrilling finish with Curragh Grey getting back up on the line to grab the spoils.

Paddy Neville 's charge was something of a gamble in the conditions race, backed from 10/1 in the morning and sent off 9/2 on course.

She took over the lead with a circuit to run but was strongly pressed turning for home by For A Finish and Indifference Curve

For A Finish got to the front before the final fence but Tom Doyle conjured a late surge out of Curragh Grey to get up at the death for the narrowest of margins.

Indifference Curve was a game third, just half-a-length off the front pair.

"She's a good mare and is improving all the time," said Neville afterwards.

"She was flat out for the last mile-and-a-half but just kept battling.

"I was quietly confident coming here. She was only beaten four lengths by a decent horse of Eric McNamara's (Questions Answered) at Limerick and I don't think she got the credit for that.

"I have nothing in mind short-term but she could be a Irish National type."

Neville also had plenty of praise for winning jockey Tom Doyle:-

"He gave her a brilliant ride and is a top-class jockey. It's a pity he doesn't get more opportunities on the big days."

4/1 favourite Saddlers Storm finished a well-beaten sixth and was found to be distressed post-race.

Gary Carson