WIDE OPEN MIDLANDS DERBY FINAL IN STORE

Ian Fortune

The final of the Kilbride Kennels Midlands Derby dominates tonight’s action at Mullingar and it promises to be a fascinating contest with most of the line-up capable of mounting a bold bid.

Indeed, there was very little between the six on the clock in the semi-finals and none of the finalists can be dismissed.

In such a competitive contest, the draw will likely have a huge bearing on the result. Coolderry Kate and Pat The Doc had a great tussle in the semis and the duo are drawn against the fence. Coolderry Kate set a strong gallop last week and will need to do so again. Pat The Doc reeled her in last week and will hope to turn close again. If doing so, he would emerge as a serious threat.

CODY FASTEST IN SEMIS

On the outside of the track, fastest semi-final winner Folkscourt Cody wears the stripes of six and won’t be shy of support.

If repeating his latest form, he could emerge as the one to beat. Ballyfore Blonde is likely to start the outsider of the field from five despite running well in defeat last week. If she is to cause an upset, she must hit the ground running.

Jameson Johnny overcame traffic in his last two starts to take second on both occasions. He is certainly fast enough to get involved but may ned to show more urgency into the bend. Baby Dont Dally completes the line up in four. One of two runners for Ian Reilly, he boasts some superb form and could represent a little value. He too needs to come away racing but is hard to dismiss.

NOT EASY TO PREDICT

It’s a really intriguing contest but Folkscourt Cody comes into the contest in fine form after his latest impressive display and he is selected to emerge on top for owner Nial Deegan.

Of the remainder, Coolderry Kate and Pat The Doc have the best of the draw but don’t be surprised if Baby Dont Dally finds a way to get involved.