Scorpion returns to sting rivals and delight Doyle

Wexford trainer Liz Doyle was left ruing what might have been when Sea Scorpion unshipped Lisa O'Neill when responding for pressure in the closing stages at Limerick earlier this month, but the trainer saw the positive side of things, as she knew the five-year-old was approaching top form.

It did not take long for Sea Scorpion to repay Doyle and, ridden by Sean Flanagan, the 7-2 shot came up trumps to win the feature 2m5f handicap hurdle.

"Soft ground and bottom weight - it's not rocket science," said Doyle. "I thought he might have won at Limerick last time when he unseated his rider. He always hits a flat spot and then finds more off the bridle.