Some of the fancied ones were to the fore in the Michael Cooney Memorial Handicap (Div I) at Dundalk, with favourite Scherzando (11/4) coming out on top.

It could have been different if second market choice, Chagall hadn’t wandered across the track, ending up on the stand’s side.

In the end Scherzando touched off the strong finisher, Kinch by a head.

The aforementioned Chagall was half a length back in third.

Denis Hogan trains Scherzando for the Galway Girl Syndicate and Damian Lavelle and Joey Sheridan did the steering.

“He deserved it. He's been very consistent all year and as he's been running well he's been getting more confidence in himself as well,” said Sheridan.

“Now that he's after getting his head in front hopefully he'll flourish and he might go on and pick up another one.”

Sheridan is in action in France tomorrow on Princess Zoe and added:- “I can't wait, it's still a bit surreal even getting a ride in a race like that.

“It's kind of hitting home now that it's actually tomorrow. I've had a winner yesterday and a winner today so it's great to be going over there with plenty of confidence.”

D. McMonagle, rider of Chagall trained by Edward Lynam, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount hung right up the straight.

(GC & EM)