Zariyna just prevails in thriller

Zariyna opened her account at the third attempt when just holding on in a tight finish to the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Fillies Maiden and then survived a subsequent stewards enquiry.

Johnny Murtagh’s mount held a narrow lead entering the final furlong of this extended nine furlongs event, and the 7/2 chance needed a strong drive to just hold on by a head from Urban Ball (4/1).

However an enquiry was called as the winner edged right under pressure in the closing stages causing third placed An Saincheann (3/1 fav) to be checked.

The placings remained unaltered, although Murtagh did pick up a one day suspension for careless riding.

Winning trainer Micahel Halford was represented by his wife Louise who said, “Johnny said she’s a nice filly and she should come on from that run. She’s better on grass.”

(Additional reporting by Donal Murphy)