Mtada another surprise winner at Down Royal

The card at Down Royal began in promising fashion for punters with a winning favourite but it wasn't long before things took a nosedive and Mtada Supreme (14/1) was another result for the bookmakers in the Daily Mirror Hunters Chase.

The sweet travelling favourite James looked like he could 'take' Mtada Supreme whenever Willie Thompson elected but in the end the market-leader couldn't get past on the run-in and went down by a head.

They came close on the run-in but the result was confirmed after a steward's enquiry.

"He was a bit too brave at one or two and left his hind legs at them, but he found plenty," reported winning rider Noel McParlan of the Peter Maher-trained victor.

The Stewards enquired into possible interference after the final fence involving James, ridden by Mr W. Thompson, placed second and Mtada Supreme, ridden by Mr N. McParlan, placed first, where it appeared that James received a bump when challenging. Evidence was heard from the riders concerned. Having viewed the recording of the race and considered the evidence, the Stewards made no alteration to the Judges' placings. They did, however, advise Mr N. McParlan to ride with more care.(MG & EM)