Howyoulikethat strikes to give Ben Coen Dundalk double

Howyoulikethat gave jockey Ben Coen a double on the night when keeping on well to land the William Hill Pick Your Places Handicap at Dundalk.

A winner over course and distance on two previous occasions, the Hilary McLoughlin trained five-year-old had appeared somewhat unlucky in running when a close up third here last time.

Despite being drawn wide on this occasion, Coen managed to get his mount away well and secured a good spot throughout.

Making his move down the centre of the track early in the straight, the winner picked off leader Walhaan close home, keeping on nicely at the finish.

“He likes it here. The last day Declan McDonogh gave him a lovely ride but they didn't go quick enough,” said Martin Ferris.

“Ben had to ride for Johnny Murtagh the last day but he won on him and he's his ride.

“We're delighted, the key to him is a good gallop as he relaxes then. The draw wasn't a concern because he needs to be dropped in. He showed a good turn of foot there today.

“It was the wrong thing to do to run him in Punchestown as he got a fair hike for it but he's after coming good now so we're delighted.

“It was a nice pot and the owners have been patient.

“Hilary doesn't get to come racing much as she's looking after the yard but she'll be delighted as she rides this horse everyday.”

Additional reporting by Gary Carson