DUNDALK PREVIEW:JUST THREE more Dundalk Friday night meetings will eventually bring the 2008 Irish Flat season to a close and while Pat Smullen will be busy protecting his lead in the jockey's championship tonight it could be that rising star Paul Townend will end up the rider to follow.

Smullen currently leads his nearest rival Fran Berry by seven (88-81) with Johnny Murtagh on 78. Berry may bridge the gap slightly courtesy of Alaiyma in tonight's seven-furlong Nursery.

But the real rider in form is Townend who won over fences at Thurles yesterday on Cooldine and the teenager can prove his versatility once more on Alone He Stands in the seven-furlong handicap. Townend partnered John Hayden's veteran to a good win at Leopardstown last time and Alone He Stands already boasts placed form on the all-weather. The Cork-born rider can also fancy his chances on the course winner Full Title on which his 5lb claim could be crucial.