Saoirse edges bumper duel

Saoirse's Sister proved game to make a winning debut in the concluding bumper at Clonmel.

The race developed into a match between the winner and Dance The Devil down the straight after that rival had taken over from long-time leader Big Bluff before the turn.

Dance The Devil (backed from 20/1 in morning into 5/1 on course) appeared to be travelling better early in the straight but was worn down by Charles Byrnes' charge close home as she recorded a half-length success under Derek Fox (got a 2 day ban for excessive frequency with the whip).

The winner edged left under pressure in the closing stages but the result stood after a Stewards Enquiry.

"We thought she'd run well but were hoping that she'd finish in the first four," said Byrnes afterwards.

"She had been working well and got a great ride from a very promising rider. She'll go hurdling now but I'm not sure if it will be this season or next."

Saoirse's Sister is well related, being out of a half-sister to the dam of Big Zeb.

It was a third success 'under rules' for 18-year-old Sligo-man Fox, who has also partnered two point-to-point winners.

Gary Carson