DOROTAS WILDCAT went one better than twelve months ago when landing the MSCM Limited Eclipse Final at Nottingham on Monday.

On a fantastic night’s racing, topped off by a pulsating final, the Derby champion confirmed Towcester form with Droopys Verve as he paced up to lead into the first bend and held off a brilliant challenge from the runner-up to land the £8,000 prize.

A great rematch on paper, with the Derby first and second doing battle for the first time in the Colwick Park event and the third time overall, the Kevin Hutton-trained champion once again withstood the challenge of his younger rival.

“What a race and what a greyhound,” said winning trainer Hutton after his kennel star crossed the line a length clear of Droopys Verve in 29.35sec (+30) after both greyhounds tore down the back-straight at Nottingham, the winner always holding sway.

However, Hutton was quick to praise Angela Harrison’s Dundalk International winner and All England Cup champion. “They are two great dogs who have produced a fantastic race. Wildcat had to be strong in front, but he’s toughed it out well.”

Hutton also paid tribute to Nottingham and to sponsor Mark Lowther for his support of the famous annual. “It was a great sponsorship and we’re delighted to have gone one better than last year. That was another great race, of course.”

Part-owner David Usher was also delighted to see the May 2015 son of Ballymac Vic and Droopys Danneel grab gold in what was Dorotas Wildcat’s second major success at Nottingham following his Select Stakes victory of 2017.

“Kevin and Donna (Witchells) have done a tremendous job with Wildcat, and he was just brilliant tonight. So, too, was Verve and I think greyhound fans up and down the country must have loved that race. We certainly did!”

Hutton later confirmed the 2019 Derby is now the main target – and a defence of his crown. “He stays in training, but we plan a light 2019 campaign with the Trainers’ Championship meeting and Derby the plan. We’ll have some straws taken also in the meantime.”

Eclipse sponsor Mark Lowther added: “It’s been a great night, and fantastic race. Actually I think Dorotas Wildcat and Droopys Verve have served up the race of the year. It’s been great fun, and that’s what greyhound racing is all about.”

Nathan Corden, a director at the stadium, said of the final: “It lived up to its billing, and has produced an enthralling battle between Wildcat and Verve. Wildcat was very impressive, but so was Verve in defeat as he was game throughout the race.

“Put simply it’s been a brilliant Eclipse this year and we are thankful that Mark Lowther, through MSCM, has supported the race and we’re delighted with the exposure the competition received.”

Nottingham results: www.gbgb.org.uk/resultsMeeting.aspx?id=167153