The Henry de Bromhead-trained Defan was gifted victory at the final flight, in the second division of the opportunity maiden hurdle at Limerick, as Light Brigade crashed out when appearing to hold the upper hand.

The 11/10 favourite had travelled well to take a narrow advantage before the second last but was joined over that hurdles by Defan.

Light Brigade was a length to the good jumping the final flight but despite a fine leap knuckled over on landing.

Defan took full advantage, under Daniel Holden, going on to record a two-and-three-quarter length success over 66/1 shot Drop Him In

The 18/1 winner had been a faller on his debut at Listowel when sent off favourite and had made little impression last time out at Galway.

Holden said afterwards:- "Henry said to take my time everywhere with him and he travelled really easily through the race and I was taking him back everywhere.

"He was disappointing the last day he ran but is coming to himself now."

(Quotes by Tom Weekes)