Sullane Hill dug deep to produce a gutsy front-running performance in the two-and-a-half mile handicap hurdle at Thurles.

Amateur James Hannon had a willing partner when asking his mount for an effort on the run to the home straight.

Pat O'Connor 's charge stayed on well in the closing stages as Erins Benefit gave chase, recording a two-and-a-half length success.

The 11/2 winner was following up on his win over two miles at the track a fortnight ago.

“He won a point to point (in 2017) and won a maiden hurdle at Wexford but got knocked out for a bit and came back in great old form recently.

"We were hoping for the best with him again today and he'll jump fences eventually but while he's winning over hurdles, you keep going."

Hannon is better known for riding point-to-point winners and recently registered his 100th 'between the flags'. This was his first success over hurdles.

(Quotes by Tom Weekes)