Review LEOPARDSTOWN 24-MAY-2000

Enzeli is still on course for the Ascot Gold Cup despite a narrow defeat to British raider Royal Rebel on his reappearance in the Saval Beg Stakes at the showery Foxrock venue.

The son of Kahyasi headed pace-making stablemate Katiykha inside the final 1/4m but failed by a short-head to hold the challenge of Mick Kinane's mount.

Winning trainer Mark Johnston, flanked by owner Peter Savill, said: 'He will go for the Curragh Cup on Irish Derby weekend.'

John Oxx was far from downhearted with the odds-on favourite saying: 'He is a lazy horse at home, and that run will have done him alot of good.'

Kinane earlier initiated a double in the 2yo fillies maiden where Little Firefly (4/6-13/8f) scored in fine style.

The daughter of Danehill overcame a slow start, leading inside the final furlong for a comfortable 2L victory over Marsh Harrier.

'She has alot of class, and could progress into a Moyglare Stud Stakes filly,' said Aidan O'Brien.

Jim Gorman saddled his seventh winner of the season when Miracle Ridge quickened nicely inside the final furlong to take the 5f handicap.

The minor placings were reversed following a stewards enquiry after King Of Russia caused interference to Jay And-A and Gossie Madera when edging left in the closing stages.

'He needs good ground, and will probably run again under a penalty over 6f at the Curragh on Sunday,' said Gorman.

Charles O'Brien opened his account for the campaign when Montecastillo (Warren O'Conner) led inside the final 100 yards to beat McDab by a 1L.

The Wayne Lordan-ridden Consalvo touched off Experimental (Mick Kinane) after a final furlong duel in the 1m2f handicap.

Hot Bunny, who was always prominent in the 2m handicap hurdle, took a decisive lead after three out but after mistakes at the final two flights held on by 1 1/2L from Golden River.

Glasslacken Beauty (Vinny Keane) led off the home turn to beat the staying on Liquor Merchant by 1/2L in the bumper.

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