Marquess claims notable scalp of Diamond in Produce semis

SCOOBY MARQUESS claimed the scalp of ante-post favourite Swords Diamond with a brilliant performance in the second semi-final of the National Produce Stake over 525 yards at Clonmel on Friday.

Jennifer O'Donnell's dog had been outstayed by the same rival in round two but there was never much chance of a repeat as he cleared Callaway Danny into the turn who then checked off from the inside doing Swords Diamond no favours.

The 8/15F did find clear racing room along the back straight and set after Scooby Marquess but he had flown and scored by more than four lengths in a superb 28.20sec with Oriental Prince the other qualifier for Sunday week's [24th May] final which is live on sisracing.tv

The opening semi was a scrappy affair in behind although not for Paul Matthews' Firstpastthepost who did not see another rival after bravely cutting the first bend from trap five.

Clear from that point onwards, he was closed down to an extent by an eye-catching Droopys Winsome late on but comfortably held that rival by just under two lengths in 28.52sec with Berlin Trilogy qualifying, albeit nearly seven lengths back in third.

National Produce Stake final - Sunday 24th May