Fine front-running from First Friday Seamus Heffernan judged things perfectly from the front as First Friday just lasted home in the mile-and-a-half handicap at Cork. Paul Hennessy's charge had his rivals on the stretch early in the straight but his advantage started to dwindle inside the final furlong. 33/1 shot Gothen Niece emerged from the chasing pack to press the winner close home and just failed by half a length. The 12/1 winner was gained a deserved success having been placed several timew on the all-weather over the winter and also finishing runner-up at Gowran last month. "That meant a lot as he was born and reared at home and he's like a child to us," said Hennessy. "Seamie says we should go to Galway so we'll do what we are told!" It was a third winner for Hennessy, who is better known for his exploits as a greyhound handler. The 4/1 favourite Lough Ferrib was bidding to add to his Fairyhouse success on Wednesday but having briefly chased the winner inside the final furlong had to settle for third close home. Conor Hoban received a two-day ban for using his whip on Our Nana Rose (11th) when the filly was out of contention. Gary Carson & Alan Magee
