Brian Hughes strikes back as Johnson hotpot beaten at 1-5

Brian Hughes restored his lead to 18 over Richard Johnson in the jockeys' title race when the pair clashed at Sedgefield on Sunday.

Johnson's mount Strong Glance was backed into 1-5 to win the 2m4f novices' hurdle, but it was Hughes who prevailed on 4-1 shot Baron De Midleton.

The pair were going head-to-head for the first time since the champion jockey's astonishingly quick return from injury.

Johnson has won the championship for the last four seasons, but is second favourite this time, having broken his arm in a fall at Exeter that looked to have ruined his chance.

Richard Johnson pictured winning aboard Roccowithlove at Newbury on FridayCredit: Alan Crowhurst

Yet he has hit the ground running on his comeback, securing four wins from seven rides since returning and is now quoted as short as 9-4 to take the crown again.

Baron De Midleton was the only winner for either rider on the card and Johnson now trails Hughes 133-115.

Johnson is a best-priced 11-4 to retain his title, with Hughes available at 2-7 to land the crown for the first time.

Both riders are set to be in action at Wetherby on Monday, although the meeting is subject to an 8am inspection.

More to read:

Richard Johnson: the jockeys' championship is not over yet

Richard Johnson's title hopes not over yet despite injury says Tom Scudamore

Brian Hughes: jockeys' title by no means an open goal despite Johnson injury

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