Roicead on upward curve

Roicead looks a sprinter going places after a convincing success in the five furlong handicap at Cork.

Brendan Duke 's charge had no problem defying a 12lb rise for his success at Tipperary earlier in the month and looks a big improver.

Willie Supple always had his mount handy and sent him to the front two furlongs from home.

He kept on strongly to assert inside the final furlong and record a two-length victory over long-time leader Nocturnal Affair

"I'm really really happy to have this horse in the yard. He is what I personally needed," said Duke.

"He has a long way to go but he's going the right way. WIthout a doubt he's the happiest horse in the universe!

"He goes swimming every morning and is like flipper in the pool. He knows the days of the week.

"He's improved out of sight for me. He'll run next in a premier handicap at the Curragh on St Leger day. I'd be keen to leave it at that for the season then.

"I was ten years training in England but the prizemoney there is a real stumbling block. It's not possible to pay the bills unless you have a real superstar.

"(Owner) Mick Daly promised to send me some good horses when I moved to Ireland and so far so good - he's been true to his word."

Gary Carson