Tiger now two from two over fences

The 2014 Triumph Hurdle winner Tiger Roll made it two from two over fences, as he claimed the Midlands National Ladies Day July 15th Novice Chase.

Successful on his debut over the larger obstacles at Ballinrobe last month, the Gordon Elliott trained six-year-old was expected to follow-up this evening, going off the 7/4 favourite.

Settled in fifth by Jack Kennedy, he improved a place into fourth with a circuit to race. He made further progress into third after four out, and disputed the lead after the next.

He was pushed along and hit the front on the run to the last, and despite a slight error there, he kept on well to score by three and a half lengths. Valyssa Monterg (7/2) kept on to finish second under Danny Mullins for his uncle Willie, while Duckweed was a further four and a half lengths back in third.

Gordon Elliott, who trains the winner for Gigginstown House Stud, said afterwards: "That was good - he's been consistent. We'll look at the novice chase in Galway now.

"He's one of the favourites in the yard. He's had his problems but he's back rocking now."

STEWARDS REPORT

N.M. Kelly, rider of Icantsay trained by Miss M.Harding, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount whipped around at the start and refused to race.

B.T. O'Connell, rider of Rightback Atya trained by P.J. Rothwell, reported to the Clerk of Scales that the ground was too fast for his charge.

Additional reporting by Gary Carson