Timeform Irish SmartPlays: Zero to score at Sligo

Timeform's Irish team bring you three selections at Sligo

Timeform's Irish team have studied the card at Sligo and found three bets for you...

A winner of a one-and-a-half mile maiden at Tramore in October, Zabana (18:10) produced an encouraging performance on his first outing over hurdles, finishing third at Limerick earlier this month. He didn't produce a round of foot-perfect jumping on that occasion, his inexperience evident as he made a few novicey mistakes, but he kept on well in the closing stages, hinting that he may have more to offer in this sphere. He has been found a good opportunity here and should be capable of registering his first success over hurdles.

The Martin Brassil-trained Troll D'oudairies was a respectable second at Tipperary last time and can score in a weak-looking affair in the 19:10. That second-place effort, where he was beaten by eighteen lengths, came over three miles, but Troll D'oudairies should not be inconvenienced by stepping down to two and a quarter miles. In fact, his chief rival, Castletown Bridge, hasn't always convinced with his finishing effort, so Troll D'oudairies' proven stamina may be an asset.

The two-and-a-half mile handicap hurdle at 20:10 is possibly the most competitive event on the card, but Eddie Zero may be capable of springing a surprise at a double-figure price. Eddie Zero's sole win was gained from a mark 1 lb higher at Downpatrick in 2010/11 and he has made the frame 3 times since. He appeared to find two miles on good ground an insufficient test of stamina last time and this sort of trip should see the eight-year-old in a better light.

Timeform Irish SmartPlays:
All at Sligo

Back Zabana in the 18:10
Back Troll D'oudairies in the 19:10
Back Eddie Zero in the 20:10

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