WHILE just five lined up for the Matchbook Betting Exchange Craddockstown Novice Chase, the Grade 2 proved a fascinating race to watch, with the fortunes of market leaders Westport Cover (9/4) and Fleur In The Park (10/11f) changing a number of times in the straight.

Willie Mullins’s sole representative, Westport Cove, a Grade 3 winner last time, took well to the winter ground, leading the field under Paul Townend. The Cathal Hughes-owned seven-year-old led them turning for home, with the Andy Slattery-trained favourite hot on his heels, and the latter gained the upper hand at the second last following a mistake by the leader.