MONTANA CAN PEAK IN KASKO SEMIS AT THURLES

After some top-class opening-round action, the semi-finals of the Kasko Dog Feeds Unraced ON2/ON3 525 top the bill on a ten-race card at Thurles tonight and, with both Good Sports and Smarters Pro unable to take their places, all eyes will be on Zaconey Montana following an impressive debut performance.

Good Sports and Smarters Pro both produced hugely impressive efforts on debut for connections, however, having fallen foul of the time-finding rules, neither can take any further part in the €2,100-to-the-winner stake. That said, there are still some exciting youngsters remaining, none more so than Zaconey Montana, who will be expected to make it back-to-back wins in the opening semi-final for Niall and Eric Foley.

The strapping son of Ballymac Cashout - Windy Love produced a powerful performance last weekend, taking charge at the halfway mark before drawing clear to record a five-length victory in 28.75. On the evidence of that display, ‘Montana’ is very difficult to oppose given he has some nine lengths in hand of his rivals on the clock. Drawn on the outside in six, that berth should play to the strengths of the big-galloping October 24’ whelp and another dominant display could be on the cards. Of his rivals, Supa Henry is closest on the clock and will appreciate a draw in red for trainer David Hickey. Meanwhile, Lemon Mal may have been beaten a wide margin last time out, but a much sharper performance can be expected from the promising February puppy. Tom Lennon’s runner completely walked from traps on debut and, should he leave on terms this time around, he could have a much bigger say in proceedings.

In the second semi-final, Da Lucky Lad looks the one to beat for owner Claire McKenna. The April 25’ son of Droopys Flytline was in the driving seat on debut before surrendering his advantage to Zaconey Montana, however, there was certainly no disgrace in defeat and he looks to have every chance of going one better this time around. Drawn in trap three, he clocked 29.10 despite defeat and, should he reproduce his 1.71 sectional, a trap-to-line victory could well be within his sights. Of his chief rivals, Lethal Jack had no answer to Smarters Pro on debut, but he is very well housed in red and could play a leading role on the run-up. Tromora Bruno also warrants respect after attracting support on debut and, although things didn’t go his way on that occasion, an improved effort can be expected from Noel Hehir’s runner.