Abbeydale proves too strong for odds on Road

Abbeydale battled on bravely inside the final furlong to see off odds on favourite Raglan Road in Division l of the Goresbridge Maiden Hurdle at Gowran Park.

Always prominent under Jordan Gainford, the Gordon Elliott trained gelding chased clear leader Jet Set Johnny before taking closer order on the run to two out.

At that point, Raglan Road loomed up travelling ominously well on the outer and that horse briefly led between the final two flights.

However, with the aid of the running rail, Gainford found a more than willing partner who responded to pressure, leading after the last, before pulling out extra to hold the rallying favourite close home.

“He just kept it simple, Jordan thought dropping back in trip would suit him,” said assistant Ian Amond.

“He rode him handy and said he got a good run around on him down the inner.

“He had a few nice runs and had a bit of experience.”

Additional reporting by Gary Carson