Keep an Eye on Interesting Mullins Newcomer Alpine Cobra at Naas

14:40 Whatoddspaddy? Novice Handicap Chase

Fitzhenry may have been running over hurdles last time, but that’s no reflection on his ability to jump fences, and the form of his last few runs over both sets of obstacles is very likeable on the whole. He was beaten just a nose at Punchestown in November where he had a next-time-out winner just behind, and he built on that by scoring over this trip at Thurles, and his latest second over timber merely shows how adaptable and consistent he is. Fitted with cheekpieces, presumably at the behest of Barry Geraghty, he can continue his good run of form, and provide Paul Nolan with a welcome winner after a few near misses of late.

15:45 Paddy’s Rewards Chase

With Alisier D’Irlande looking a shadow of himself on his last two starts, it’s not easy to support last year’s winner, although this inconsistent character is always capable of bouncing back, and it’s worth noting that he’s failed to beat a rival in his two starts before land a minor gamble in this 12 months ago. Even if he does come back to his best, he has a battalion of Gordon Elliott chasers barring his path to glory, chief of which is the rejuvenated Doctor Phoenix. That rival is likely to start atb short odds, and merits respect, but Alisier D’Irlande has won two from three at Naas, and looks the value call despite his patchy form.

17:15 Paddy Power Acca Insurance (Pro/Am) I.N.H. Flat Race

It used to be the name of Willie Mullins that punters looked for when surveying Irish bumpers, but all of a sudden, Charles Byrnes is the fella to seek out, and he has landed a number of recent gambles with bumper debutants. Once again he has an interesting newcomer here in the shape of Alpine Cobra, and punters are urged to take the early price, especially if they have the safety net of best odds guaranteed. The son of Scorpion is a half-brother to Persian Snow, an impressive winner on his bumper debut at Ascot, and from the family of the smart Bellator, who won a Grade 2 Hurdle on his jumps debut. Those achievements augur well for Alpine Cobra’s chances on debut, and he could be another winning gamble for the rampant Byrnes operation.

Tips:

14:40 Fitzhenry 

15:45 Alisier D’Irlande 

17:15 Alpine Cobra