Joseph O'Brien: Irish Grand National gamble Sempo has 'big chance'

Irish Grand National hopeful Sempo may never have won over fences, but that is proving no deterrent to punters who have backed him into as short as 8-1 to win the Easter Monday showpiece for trainer Joseph O'Brien, who believes his contender has a "big chance".

O’Brien, whose assault on the €400,000 prize is likely to be bolstered by Home By The Lee and Mortal, has revealed that his eyecatching market mover – backed in from 33-1 – is on course for the 3m6f Grade A handicap and is quietly hopeful of a prominent showing in the main event of Fairyhouse's three-day Easter festival.

Tiger Roll, also as short as 8-1, heads the weights for the race but a decision on his participation is likely to be left until declaration stage. Sempo is currently at the foot of the weights, although his burden will rise if the two-time Aintree Grand National winner, who also has the Betway Bowl as a possible target, skips Fairyhouse.