THE IRISH INSIDER

14:20 Naas

A strong looking field for this Grade 3 contest considering it’s the weekend before the Cheltenham Festival. Slip Of The Tongue and Deploy The Getaway renew rivalry having filled the 1-2 in a listed race at Punchestown last month. Padraig Roche’s charge has improved with each run and wasn’t beaten far behind leading Champion Hurdle contender Teahupoo. Only two pounds separate them on ratings and considering there was less than a length between them at Punchestown, I think Slip Of The Tongue can uphold the form.

It may have taken Highland Charge four attempts to shed his maiden tag over hurdles but did chase home Sir Gerhard at Leopardstown before beating Micro Manage over course and distance a fortnight ago. The most fascinating runner is Gypsy Island whose only defeat to date came at the hands of Champion Chase winner Put The Kettle On. She’s obviously fragile but did make a winning return from a longer absence last season and the yard took the Imperial Cup yesterday s she’s a danger to all.

GYSPY ISLAND (E/W)

16:05 Naas

Gavin Cromwell’s Jeremys Flame has shown improved form over fences this season, including a half-length second to Concertista in a Grade 2 at Cork. Jessica Harrington’s string has shown signs of a revival over the past two weeks and Lifetime Ambition can’t be ruled out. He looked very smart when winning on chase debut at Down Royal in October but he’s had his limitations exposed since then.

Delvino is a nice sort and a former course winner but this looks like a strong contest and he may have to settle for minor honours once again. West Cork Wildway was one of the “dark” talking horses on the Cheltenham preview circuit but connections have decided to come here instead. I think this looks like a relatively weak Grade 3 and he should be suited by the ground and distance. He's got fifteen lengths to spare over Lifetime Ambition on their Punchestown clash and at the prices, I think he’s a great bet!

WEST CORK WILDWAY (WIN) written by Peter Keogh