Moneynabane leads home McCluskey one-two

Neill McCluskey saddled a one-two in the J Murdoch Contracts Handicap Hurdle as Moneynabane beat Wee Jerry over this extended 2m5f.

Philip Byrnes did the steering on the 9/2 shot who was brought to the outer on the run-in and collared Wee Jerry inside the final furlong to score by six lengths.

Wee Jerry (12/1) attempted to make all, but couldn't respond once headed and had to settle for the runner-up berth. Mr Social the 15/8 favourite, was another four lengths away in third.

McCluskey said: "They both ran well. He (Moneynabane) was third on his last run here and a bit further today helped him (after running over shorter in Britain) and probably the softer ground.

"The wee horse (Wee Jerry) hasn't been well all summer, but he was obviously healthier today.

"I'm delighted."

The only comment the trainer wished to make in relation to the current IHRB proceedings, that resulted in the withdrawal of his licence for six months from 1st December, was to say that he is disappointed and intends to appeal.