Broughtons Rhythm hits right note at Uttoxeter

Champion jockey Richard Johnson struck first on Midlands Grand National day at Uttoxeter with a hard-fought victory on Broughtons Rhythm in the Betfred 'Home Of Goals Galore' Novices' Handicap Hurdle.It was a first winner over jumps for trainer Henry Spiller since he took over Willie Musson's Newmarket stables.Johnson held Broughtons Rhythm (4-1) up in the early stages, before bringing him through to challenge in the straight, where he held Zenafire by a length and a half."It's hard work. It's holding and very tiring ground," Johnson said."The race worked out well. They went a good gallop and the race came back to him. He's been very consistent and it was great to get his head in front."