Samcro s northern mission ended in defeat today in Down Royal's Bluegrass Stamm 30 Chase behind winner Roi Mage (13/2), who was completing an unusual double for on-course commentators.

Dual Cheltenham winner Samcro disappointed since winning at Killaney in May and today started 9/4 second-favourite, behind 11/10 favourite Agusta Gold which pulled up on two previous starts.

Samcro's effort petered out in the closing stages as Roi Mage, under Mark McDonogh, edged ahead on the run-in to score by a length and three parts from Agusta Gold, with Samcro finishing third. Billable Grant won today's opener in the colours of paddock announcer Pamela Ballantine, with commentator James Griffin completing the 'microphone double', being assistant to his father Patrick Griffin in the training of Roi Mage.

The ten year old began his chase career as a three year old at Auteuil in July 2015 and 'caller' Griffin reported “this lad was third in the Grande Steeple-Chase de Paris and was bought for the Grand National.

"That's what the owners want but he's not going to get in this year, although hopefully he will next year. He'll go for the Topham Chase next. .

"He only arrived a week before Christmas and we gave him a three-week break. He is the best horse we have, so he finds everything very easy and is just class. When you press the turbo, there is just power.

“His run in the Red Mills Hurdle was a very, very good run and we knew he would come on for it. He was being primed for April 9, now he will have to go on April 8.”

He added "I really enjoyed calling the race, especially for dad, as it's the first time calling him a winner."

Quotes from Michael Graham