Irving defies three-figure high to land Fighting Fifth

Irving (right) just holds on from Apple's Jade in the Fighting Fifth at NewcastleCredit: John Grossick Racing Photography

There was a thrilling finish to the Fighting Fifth Hurdle at Newcastle with Irving just hanging on from the strong-finishing Apple's Jade, a result that looked far from likely for much of the race.

Other than the novice Mirsaale, nothing was going worse than Irving down the back straight and he hit a high of 200 to buttons on Betfair when Harry Cobden started rowing along.

The 2014 winner stuck his head down and battled all the way, though, and when Petit Mouchoir fell when going well, his chance looked a lot more promising.

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Published on 26 November 2016inHorse racing tips

Last updated 15:58, 26 November 2016

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