Diophas cruises home in Cork opener Diophas (9/10f) was a hotpot in the opener at Cork and duly obliged in great style under Andrew McNamara. Classy Flat recruit Jumbajukiba proved easy to back (2/1 to 11/4) and appeared not to stay, eventually pulling up after dropping out tamely. Diophas hit the front before the fourth last and stretched away from his field in the home straight to post a seven-length success over Dbanks. "I had no intention of go back hurdling with him until this meeting appeared," revealed winning trainer Edward O'Grady afterwards. "When I seen a six-year-old plus hurdle I said we'd take our chance and I'm glad I did. "Looking at that today I'm sorry I didn't put him in the Pierse Hurdle. I don't know where he'll go next. "He nearly looks to be a better chaser and took to it quite well the last day." O'Grady also reported recent Gowran Park winner Alaivan to have "come out of the race well." Tranquil Sea is also on course for Leopardstown's Christmas meeting.
