Vee Dancer repelled the late challenge of Mephisto to land the spoils in the opening two-mile handicap at Dundalk this afternoon.

Ronan McNally 's charge went to post a well-backed 2/1 favourite on his all-weather venue and bounced out to make the running under Dylan Browne McMonagle.

The Morozov gelding was asked for an effort and Mephisto looked a big danger as he travelled well to press the leader over a furlong from home.

Vee Dancer found plenty in the closing stages and wasn't for passing as he stuck his head out to record a three-parts-of-a-length victory.

Ronan McNally was having his first runner since appealing his 12 year disqualification. The trainer was leading up the winner.

The trainer's son Kian told Racing TV:- "This winner came at the right time. Just after the ban was handed out, it has come and give us a lift.

"When I'm racing and I'm older, my dad can't come and watch me when I do get my first winner. My dad is very disappointed about that.

"I'll be happy when I get my first winner, but I'll be sad my Dad won't be there.

"This will give my dad a big lift. I think he is a very good trainer.

"It will ruin my dad's life if he is not able to be at the races when I'm riding.

"I've had 30 winners (pony racing) since lockdown. I'm sort of planning to go to the jumps at the minute.

"I've always looked up to Dylan (Browne McMonagle) from day one - when I was pony racing, he always helped me."

(Quotes by Michael Graham)