This is virtually a re-run of a handicap over slightly shorter a couple of weeks ago. JEERAAN returned after a long break to finish third behind stablemate Layl and showed the benefit with a gutsy display next time to see off the runner-up, who has won subsequently. Cry Joy had every chance and was over 2l behind with Lanark, who missed the break and can get closer, close up in fourth. Further behind were Asatir, Aslan and Respect Me and all look held. The selection's stablemate Etijaah completed a double with a very smooth victory last time and though raised 8lb has to be considered while Press Room, who hasn't had much racing for his age, has continued to make progress and a 5lb rise for last month's victory is by no means harsh.
Jeeraan (USA) 9-1 (9-0) won at Meydan(UAE) 1m 1f hcp beating Layl (9-6) by ns, 8 ran.
Etijaah (USA) 9-2fav (9-6) won at Meydan(UAE) 1m 2f hcp beating Al Nassa (8-9) by 3l, 15 ran.
Respect Me 25-1 (9-3) 7th of 8, 8l behind Jeeraan (9-0) at Meydan(UAE) 1m 1f hcp.
Asatir (USA) 25-1 (9-1) 5th of 8, 4 1/2l behind Jeeraan (9-0) at Meydan(UAE) 1m 1f hcp.
Press Room (USA) 5-1 (9-1) won at Meydan(UAE) 1m 2f hcp in Jan beating Mizbah (8-9) by 3/4l, 11 ran.
Lanark (IRE) 6-1 (8-10) 4th of 8, 3l behind Jeeraan (9-0) at Meydan(UAE) 1m 1f hcp.
Cry Joy (USA) 6-1 (8-9) 3rd of 8, 2 1/2l behind Jeeraan (9-0) at Meydan(UAE) 1m 1f hcp.
Aslan (USA) (9-1) 11th of 15, 22l behind Diwaan (9-5) at Jebel Ali(UAE) 1m 2f stks (3yo+).