The concluding mile and a half handicap at Dundalk saw 10 horses still holding chances spread across the track at the furlong pole but it was Eric The Grey (8/1) who stayed on best to win.

Denis Hogan 's five-year-old gelding only got his head in front in the closing stages as he took the honours by a neck from Ebadani (16/1). Course specialist Sharjah (18/1) was a close-up third.

He had come off the bridle in mid-division turning for home but made sustained headway to almost be on terms at the furlong marker.

Jockey Billy Lee said: "He ran well in a competitive amateur race at the Curragh last time. The blinkers were on again and they helped him. He jumped away a bit slow but got a good run through the field.

"He's a good tough horse, and should have a good chance of winning again on the flat or over hurdles."

Additional reporting by Alan Magee