Cromwell delighted to get Conna Cottage's head in front

Conna Cottage landed the odds when staying on well after two out in the Kilsheelan Maiden Hurdle at Clonmel.

He went off 4/7 for this extended two mile contest and was delivered into the race at the penultimate obstacle by Keith Donoghue.

He put in his best work from there as he made the best way home to prevail by a healthy four and three quarter lengths. Joy Of Life took the runner-up berth and attracted support down to 11/1. Kadys Dirha rewarded big-price players with a third place at 200/1.

Trainer Gavin Cromwell said: "He is a fine horse and it is grand to get his head in front. He was fourth in a better race the last day and qualified for this.

"He was second in a point to point and it was my own fault then as I ran him in a good-ground bumper at Navan and he missed a year then.

"He is a fine big horse and please God will continue to improve away. We'll stick to hurdling for the moment."

Additional reporting by Tom Weekes