Preview CURRAGH 14th Sep The Bank Of Scotland (Ireland) National Stakes is the feature race at the Curragh and provides a mouthwatering clash between two of the best juvenile colts to be seen this season.Mastercraftsman looked a superstar in the making when crushing his rivals in the Phoenix Stakes, and the step up in trip looks likely to see him in a better light.He may well extend his unbeaten run to four, but he will be made to fight by Arazan, who was an imperious winner of the Futurity. Add in Jim Bolger's Intense Focus and the Gimcrack winner Shaweel, and a great race is assured.The meeting kicks off at 2.10 with the Bank Of Scotland Ireland EBF Maiden, which sees O'Brien hold a strong chance with Freemantle, third over course and distance on his debut and the choice of Johnny Murtagh, and Four Star General, though Bolger could be hot on his tail with Zero Point Seven.Kargali gets his chance to prove himself in Pattern company after two facile wins when he lines up in the Ascon Rohcon Solonaway Stakes.John Oxx's charge showed his liking for the mud when bolting up by seven lengths at Tipperary, and he will be tough to beat if there is rain, though Zulu Chief and Jumbajukiba won't make life easy.Cristal Island was far from fancied in a Group Three contest over course and distance, but ran a cracker to finish third and could get her nose in front in the Rosaleen Kelly Blenheim Stakes.Tom Mullins' charge appeared to relish the drop to six furlongs last time and that could stand her in good stead against the newcomer Gleigeal and Kevin Prendergast's Roof Fiddle, who both have strong claims.El Presidente appears a solid contender in the closing Bank Of Scotland (Ireland) Handicap, while the wide-open Whitney Moore Nursery could prove an ideal opportunity for Miss Minnies.© www.irish-racing.com
