Ballyandy battles to Betfair success for Twiston-Davies team

Ballyandy justified strong support as he landed a gamble in the Betfair Hurdle at Newbury on Saturday.Last year's Cheltenham Champion Bumper victor was winning for the first time over hurdles as he got the better of Movewiththetimes in a battle worthy of the £155,000 prize.Trainer Nigel Twiston-Davies thought Ballyandy was well-handicapped and plenty listened as the six-year-old was a successful 3-1 favourite.Stablemate Ballyhill made the running with Clyne in close attendance while trainer's son Sam Twiston-Davies was content to stay off the pace until the straight.Movewiththetimes (6-1) laid down a strong challenge but Ballyandy was equal to the task and asserted close home to strike by three-quarters of a length.Clyne (6-1) with six lengths away third with Song Light (14-1) a further two lengths back in fourth.