Marshalled and Aine dig deep for another win

Marshalled gained a fourth career win when rallying gamely on the run-in for Aine O’Connor to land the Play Ladbrokes 5-A-Side On Football Ladies Handicap Hurdle at Punchestown.

The JP McManus-owned gelding was prominent throughout in this extended 2m3f event but was headed after making a slight mistake at the final flight.

However, the 7/2 chance dug deep on the run-in under a strong drive to get the better of 5/2 favourite Shantou Lucky by three-quarters-of-a-length. Benkei finished a further three-and-three-quarter lengths back in third.

Winning trainer Padraig Roche said, “He’s a summer horse and will run over hurdles and fences.

“Aine gave him a great ride and it worked out great.

“He’s tough and he’s consistent. I think that’s his fourth win and he’s a grand genuine horse.”