Malacanne proves tough for Kelly

Malacanne emerged on top after a four-way finish to the three-year-old handicap at Dundalk. Anann was tackled by Johnny Murtagh's charge inside the final furlong and the Raven's Pass gelding took a narrow lead in the closing stages under Shane Kelly. Pub Talk and Bright Dick also pressed the leaders in the closing stages and it was the latter who got closest at the line, within a neck of the 7/4 favourite.

Malacanne was recording back-to-back victories on the surface having also scored over a mile here 19 days ago.

Kelly said: "He's a grand little lad, but I had to get pretty tough with him and he answered every question. He did it well in the end.

"I thought I had the position (turning into the straight) and I thought I had the horse but it took him a little (time) to pick up.

"He just needs a bit of encouragement and the blinkers helped. He is probably better at a mile.

"They didn't seem to go overly quick and they did quicken up, but he was well positioned.

"I'm not complaining this year, going well. Ben (Coen) is in Dubai so I am getting plenty of rides off Johnny. It is going well. I'm in every morning with Johnny."

(Quotes by Michael Graham)