'We can set our sights higher' - Al Zaraqaan impresses with fourth hurdling win

Monday: Musselburgh

The Archie Watson-trained Al Zaraqaan sauntered to a fourth consecutive win over hurdles under Gavin Sheehan.

It was a patient ride from Sheehan, who settled the five-year-old at the rear of the field before producing a challenge two from home to breeze from last to first to record an easy three-length victory in the 1m7½f handicap hurdle.

Watson said: “I thought Gavin gave him a fantastic ride. We changed the tactics because it looked like there would be plenty of pace on and we just didn’t want to be forced forward on the front end. It’s played into his hands and he’s gone and done it nicely.

“I think we can set our sights higher next. We’ll look for something over the Christmas and new-year period, and he might be one for some of those nice handicap hurdles come the spring.”

Made for Musselburgh

Made For You delivered a first Musselburgh win for up-and-coming conditional rider Daire Davis on his first outing at the Edinburgh track.

The Olly Murphy-trained seven-year-old raced in second throughout before taking the lead at the last to win going away for a fifth success.

Tis the season

Christmas generosity was in the air as Lucinda Russell notched a gift-wrapped one-two in the 2m novice chase.

A fall at the fourth from Curious Times left just three in the contest, before Masked Crusader stumbled at the last, leaving the door open for Diamond State under Derek Fox, who snatched the lead with his stablemate Thunder In Milan chasing him home in second.

Hughes double

Brian Hughes rode a double for Donald McCain on General Officer in the 1m7½f novice hurdle and Creative Control in the 3m handicap chase.

Results, replays and analysis

New customer offer. Bet £10, get £40. Credited as 4 x £10 bets. 18+. From 00:01 on 13.04.2022. £40 bonus. New customers signing up through mobile or tablet device only. Minimum £10 stake on odds of 1/2 (1.5) or greater on sportsbook. Further terms apply.