CURRAGH 16:10 4s6i58

Non Runners: GOLDANA (IRE), ELEGANT MAN (USA).

Time: 2m 21.1s

Overrounds: Industry SP 108%, Betfair SP 100.5%

A couple of significant non-runners meant this was made up of a quartet that had contested the Alleged here last month as well as one stepping up in trip, and that Alleged form was upheld, White Birch picking up well off what looked a steady gallop to maintain his perfect start to the year.

WHITE BIRCH was even better than on reappearance, following up with a bit to spare and borderline very smart now; close up, went on early in straight, drew clear entering final 1f, won cosily; deserves another crack at a Group 1 now, connections yet to decide between the Tattersalls Gold Cup and Coronation Cup.

LORD MASSUSUS (IRE) ran at least as well as on reappearance and this gives him more options with regards trip; chased leaders, took strong hold, shaken up over 2f out, kept on, took second well inside final 1f.

GREENLAND (IRE) ran much better than last time, without suggesting there is a great deal more to come, kept to this trip at least; made running, headed early in straight, kept on.

VILLAGE VOICE reopposing the winner from 3 lb better , failed to repeat last effort, fairly disappointing all told; held up, took strong hold, headway approaching home turn, effort early in straight, second 2f out, no extra final 1f.

MAXUX (IRE) was well backed to reverse form from last time with White Birch, but never looked like doing so, this not the first time in her relatively short career that she has bombed out; ponied to the start on this occasion, was dropped out, took keen hold, came wide entering straight, ridden over 2f out, made no impression; well worth another chance.