Irish Grand National

Ordinarily I wouldn't look too closely at this twenty six runner handicap but I'm intrigued by the fact that this evening's Racing Post reports the ground at Fairyhouse to be drying out. The money has come by the bucket load for Royal County Star which means the bookmakers have been rushing for cover - the horse is currently the 9/2 favourite. Provided the rains don't arrive, I'll consider two each way shouts against the field; Noel Meade's Mattock Ranger, priced at 20/1 with Paddy Power, is a proven stayer, having won the Cork National over three and a half miles last November and another 20/1 shot, Sir Frederic, whose trainer has previously stated that better ground will suit his charge.