Goodnightngodbless triumph at Down Royal

Sweet Will was caught by Goodnightngodbless in the last stages of the 3m2f handicap chase at Down Royal.

Conor Clarke and Sweet Will were constantly in the spotlight, but they were unable to overcome a persistent Goodnightgodbless on the run-in.

At 10/1, the challenger overcame the 7/2 winner by a length. Third place went to Dorking Cock (17/2) who ran a strong long way.

Trainer James Mothereway said: "This is what she wants (better ground), this is why we came five hours up the road today. She often runs well fresh and she just wants a trip, she wants decent ground. Charlie (O'Dwyer), in fairness to him, knows this mare like the back of his hand. He gets a great soul tune out of her. I thought myself along the top going to the fourth-last that we could be in a bit of trouble. I was worried if I had her fit enough. He (O'Dwyer) said once he jumped the fourth-last she kept picking up and picking up. She stays really well, stamina has always been her forte. She is a great little mare for 11 years of age. She will run away over the summer and we'll have a bit of fun. Brilliant to get one on the board for JP (McManus), he's a great supporter and it is fantastic that he has kept her with us so long."