Game Set match to Warrior

Any punters waiting on newcomer Game Set Dash (as big as 6/4 this morning into 4/11), to bring up a Ger Lyons/Colin Keane double in the Christmas Party Nights At Dundalk (C & G) Maiden, after Plus Ca Change s win in the first, were left disappointed. In-form duo Michael Halford and Shane Foley were on the mark here with Wychwood Warrior

The Lope de Vega colt, fourth on his two previous starts, made all under 'Dusty.' All the way up the straight it was clear that Game Set Dash would struggle to get to Wychwood Warrior.

In the final furlong Game Set Dash made no inroads into the victor's advantage and two and a quarter lengths separated them at the line.

Halford made the point: "He's had the two runs which were a help. The last night he ran here it was a horrible windy night and he didn't settle.

"I was happy that he'd come forward nicely and he had the experience so we let him go off in front.

"He should step forward nicely from this."

Originally from Limerick, successful owner/breeder Michael Enright is a Fermoy resident.

Of course Enright also has Wychwood Warrior's useful half-sister, Princess Pearlita (by Manduro) in training with Halford. She triumphed in the Kingdom Gold Cup at Killarney back in August. (AM & EM)