There was again a strong pace, putting stamina at a premium and it was no surprise that two of the bigger and stronger sorts in the field fought out the finish.

MONTECORVINO made a pleasing debut for new connections at a course where he had performed well last season. The one worry is that he seemed to lose his way last year after some tough races on testing ground, and this has to go down as another as he chased the early clear leader and had to fight off two serious challengers around the home bend all the way to the line. A year on and looking bigger and stronger, he can progress from this comeback and connections are looking forward to him going over fences in coming seasons.

Ballybawn House is another chasing type and she enjoyed the more testing conditions to gain revenge on her December conqueror here, Shaka's Pearl. Not that the penalised winner failed to run his race as he maintained the chase to the line on revised terms, having raced wide out in the pack throughout. He remains progressive and is probably suited to better ground.

Robeson made a promising start to his new career against his elders after showing little on the flat. He moved up quickly in the back straight and was in contention off the home bend before weakening into the last, not being knocked about.

Proprioception, as a filly and fellow four-year-old,acquitted herself well, just finding this tough course too much from the home turn.

Regal Term nearly got rid of his inexperienced rider three out in midfield, and was short of daylight before staying on steadily for an eyecatching return from 1099 days off.

Trebello took time to warm to his task but can improve on the bare form as can River Ripples, who is now handicapped.

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