Lieutenant is First again

First Lieutenant narrowly denied by De Valira here last month, got his chasing career back on track when taking the Grade 3 Dial-A-Bet 1800 721 821 EBF Novice Chase.

The 4/6 favourite struck the front approaching two out and, despite drifting right at the final fence, kept on nicely on the run-in to beat long-time leader Stephanie Kate (8/1) by a comfortable three quarters of a length.

The slow early pace probably didn't suit De Valira (7/2) who was quite keen, and he could find no extra from two out finishing last of the five. After the race he was in fact found to be lame post race.

Winning trainer Mouse Morris said, “He will go to Leopardstown at Christmas with probably one more run before that. He will be entered for the Drinmore but I'd prefer to avoid the big guns for the moment.”