Jack Kennedy moved 19 clear of Paul Townend in the jump jockey’s title race with a four-timer at Down Royal yesterday but the reigning champion will be hoping to strike back with some fancied mounts at Fairyhouse this afternoon.

Townend has four rides all with chances notably the Willie Mullins-trained pair Spread Boss Ted (in the 1.35) and O’moore Park (3.15), with Kennedy interestingly riding the obvious threat in both races aboard Binge Worthy and Lucky Lyreen respectively.

Kennedy, currently on the 97-winner mark for the campaign, also has a solid chance on D B Cooper who faces another Mullins-trained favourite in the shape of Mirazur West in the 2.05.

The going at Fairyhouse looks sure to be testing and remains officially heavy on the inside track following a further 8mm of rain overnight.

The seven-race card, which gets underway at 12.30pm, was originally scheduled for last Thursday but was cancelled due to frozen ground.

Fairyhouse hosts another meeting on Saturday which will take place on the main track and the going is currently described as soft, soft to heavy in places.

The forecast is dry for today with showers thereafter.