Patience pays dividends for McPherson as Eyeofthescorpion defies 291-day layoff

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Graeme McPherson: patience rewarded with Eyeofthescorpion

Graeme McPherson was left rejoicing after the exciting Eyeofthescorpion defied a layoff of almost nine months to take the 2m3½f handicap hurdle.

The lightly raced seven-year-old chased home Bushypark when last seen at Doncaster in December, but was not to be denied this time as he stayed on strongly in the hands of Kielan Woods to edge out Finisk River by a head.

McPherson was delighted his patience had been rewarded, and said: "He came over from Ireland and I was told when he came over he really does need decent ground. He's a massive horse and I thought if you run him on that quick ground he would have done himself some damage so we've just been very patient with him and it’s paying dividends. He's filled out now and he's really strengthened up. He really benefited from the break.

"There's a Pertemps qualifier at Cheltenham in October which is the longer-term target as he will enjoy the step up in trip over time. We'll aim to get him to three miles by Christmas."

Brian Hughes and McCain gained swift compensation for Finisk River's narrow defeat as they took the 2m½ novice hurdle with 5-4 favourite Ibbenburen. Remarkably, it is the seventh time in the last 13 years McCain has won the race.

Hamner hits career-best tally

Trainer Gary Hamner set a new personal best number of winners in a season as Sir Tivo, ridden by Sean Bowen made it three wins in his last four starts in 2m½ handicap chase.

Hamner, who has been in superb form this summer, is now on nine winners for the season surpassing his previous best of eight winners in 2019-20.

Results, replays and analysis

Read more from the action on Friday:

King George Stakes: Groom-to-be Buick loved up for more than one reason as Suesa strikes

Retirement now likely for Battaash after star sprinter fails to fire at Goodwood

Goodwood: Brilliant Baaeed strolls to fourth victory to leave Haggas aiming at the top

Expert jury: Will Baaeed end the year as the best miler in Europe?

Peter Thomas: Battaash and big screens blown away, but results still give us plenty to savour (Members' Club)