Review GOWRAN PARK 16TH FEB

Moscow Express could join stable-companion Sackville in the line-up for the Tote Cheltenham Gold Cup next month after taking the Red Mills Trial Chase at Gowran Park.

Lyreen Wonder spoiled his chance by continually jumping out to the left, and the patiently-ridden Moscow Express came through to lead two out for Ruby Walsh to score by three-and-a-half lengths from Northern Sound. 'He seems to run best fresh, and is entered in the Gold Cup. He could take his chance along with Sackville, although he also has the option of a race at Navan (March 23),' said trainer Frances Crowley.

Moscow Express was the middle leg of a treble for Walsh, who was also on the mark aboard Jenniferjo and Cad A Ra Leat.

There was a surprise outcome to the Red Mills Trial Hurdle, with victory going to 14/1 chance Fadoudal Du Cochet as Smurfit Champion Hurdle hopeful Ansar was soundly beaten in sixth.

Ansar's trainer Dermot Weld later blamed the ground (officially soft) for the defeat, and added, 'He was never travelling, and we will not make a decision about the Champion Hurdle until nearer the time.'

Meanwhile winning handler Arthur Moore is considering a tilt at the Grand Annual Chase at the Festival with his nine-year-old, who led before the last to beat the staying on Kadoun by a length. 'That's a nice bonus as we only decided to go for this as there was no suitable two miles chase. He likes soft ground, and will probably go for the Grand Annual at Cheltenham,' said Moore.

Billy The Snake is 8/1 co favourite with Cashmans for the four miles National Hunt Chase at Cheltenham after opening his account over fences in the Dinn Ri (Carlow) Beginners Chase. Pat Hughes' charge struck the front at the last, and kept on well under John Cullen to beat Rob The Five by three lengths.

Paul Carberry was in double form on the afternoon when successful aboard Room To Room Value and Star Clipper. The Red Mills Bow-Wow Maiden Hurdle was run at a sedate early pace, and Room To Room Value took a keen hold before staying on well in the straight to beat Beyond Borders by a length. 'His jumping was a bit sticky in previous runs, and the blinkers certainly made a difference. He will mix it between the Flat and hurdles this year, and will be kept going once there is an ease in the ground,' said trainer Michael Halford.

Star Clipper quickly settled the issue between the final two flights in division two of the INH Stallion Owners EBF Maiden Hurdle to record a four lengths verdict over Verney Bird.

Alan Magee