Potomac battles gamely to deny Quill Potomac stuck his head out in the closing stages to grab victory in the Kilkenny Handicap at Gowran Park. Andy Oliver's charge came through with Pivot Bridge to tackle front-runner Northern Rocked at the two pole. Chris Hayes drove his mount into the lead at the furlong marker but looked booked for second when narrowly headed by 15/8 favourite Bold Thady Quill inside the final furlong. The Shamardal gelding battled gamely, however, and just had his head in front at the post to take the extended nine-furlong contest by a short-head. The 13/2 winner had finished fourth behind his rival at the Curragh three days ago but enjoyed a 5lb pull today. "Everything went to plan. He came out of the race at the Curragh well," said Oliver. "I left it up to Chris what to do. They are getting through the ground although it is testing. "I thought Bold Thady Quill came there to win it but our fellow showed a great attitude. "He's in the sales at Newmarket next week but I'm not sure if he will go there. "He's very versatile and will stay a mile-and-a-half. Chris gave him a great ride." There was a sting in the tail for Hayes who picked up a two-day whip ban for excessive force and frequency. (On course reporting by Alan Magee)
