Master shows his true worth

Equipped with a first-time tongue-strap and hood Master Of Verse (10/11) got the job done under David Mullins for Gigginstown House Stud and Willie Mullins in the opening Support The Injured Jockeys Fund Maiden Hurdle at Fairyhouse.

The 'jolly' mastered the front-running Troublesombrothers (not un-backed at 22/1) from before the last and he went on to easily prevail by eight and a half lengths.

"He's done it well, and appreciated the better ground. The hood helped him to settle," the winning rider commented. Simply Gooch Phoenix Twist and Shanaway all came in for support earlier in the day and they filled the third, fourth and fifth spots respectively.

B.T. O'Connell, rider of Brisengere trained by P.J. Rothwell, reported to the Stewards' Secretaries that his mount fly leaped at the start which left him detached from the other runners and in running jumped badly to the left throughout the race.

(AM & EM)