Killyglen on course for Aintree

Killyglen ran out a cosy winner of the Daily Mirror Chase at Down Royal, setting up another tilt at the Grand National.

The Presenting gelding was bang in contention at Aintree last year before falling four from home and connections are hoping for another big show this time.

Robbie Power settled his mount behind the leaders before making his move before the second last in the 3m2f contest today.

Stuart Crawford 's charge kicked on from front-runner Saddlers Storm before the last and a fine leap there settled matters.

Power could afford to ease his mount going to the line as he recorded a convincing five-and-a-half length success.

The winner had been backed from 9/4 into 13/8 this morning before being sent off 15/8 favourite on course.

The runner-up Saddlers Storm had attracted support from 6/1 before racing and was returned 4/1 second choice.

"Robbie will ride him in the National," revealed Crawford.

"He was running a big race in third last year when he fell. He was tracking the leader in fact.

"Everything has been geared towards the National this season whereas last year we only decided to go for it a few weeks before the race.

"He was due to run in the Grimthorpe at Doncaster a few weeks ago but had a palate operation and was not quite right for it so came here instead.

"That ground wasn't ideal for him. He's better off this year in the National as he's dropped 4 or 5lb."

Crawford has his string in fine form and has had 11 winners this season between Ireland and Britain.

The winning owner Davy McCammon, who hails from Larne, missed the success as he is currently on holidays in Benidorm.