SHARK TO BITE AT PUNCHESTOWN

13:45 Punchestown

This race revolves around the two market principles, Black Tears trained by Gordon Elliott and Great White Shark trained by Willie Mullins, with both of them pre-entered in a couple of matching races at Cheltenham in March. The former had a great 2019-20 season but has failed to hit the same heights so far this season, while the latter won the Cesarewitch at Newmarket in October but then disappointed when returning to hurdles last time out. All three of Black Tears career wins have come around this time of year so it could be she's at her best in early spring, however despite making the frame in five from seven at Punchestown she is yet to taste victory here and given that Willie Mullins has won the last four renewals of this race I expect Great White Shark to bounce back and make it five in a row for the Closutton trainer.

GREAT WHITE SHARK (WIN)

written by Dean Kilbryde