Joe Murphy off the mark for 2022

Fethard trainer Joe Murphy got off the mark for the season when Messa Concertata (7/2) won the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Maiden.

The 74-rated filly was always in the front rank as the field edged across to race close to the stands’ rail. She responded well to Gary Carroll’s urgings in the final furlong to beat Tiny Bit and Wild Eyed Girl by half a length and a short head.

Murphy, who had his best seasonal tally last year with 19 winners, said: "We weren't expecting her to win as she wasn't working as well from last year but could be one of those horses who is better on the race track than she is at home.

"Gary says she is very genuine and she'll go for a handicap now and already has the experience."

Quotes from Thomas Weekes