Much Acclaimed landed a nice touch when making a winning debut over timber in the opening Mayo News Maiden Hurdle at Ballinrobe.

John Morrison 's charge had been available at 33/1 in the morning but that didn't last long and he was sent off 14/1 on course.

Paddy Mangan sent his mount on turning for home in the two-miler but he was soon tackled by In A Nutshell

The pair battled it out from the last with Much Acclaimed getting on top close home for a length-and-a-half success.

The winner came across the runner-up close to the line but the stewards let the result stand after having a look.

"Today was the plan. It might not have been the strongest race but he'll make a nice hurdler," said Morrison's representative Darren Pratt.

"He'll go the novice hurdle route but could run in a Flat race at Galway next."

Mangan was severely cautioned by the stewards for careless riding.