Family success as Mullins score with Marlay

Marlay Park showed a smart turn of foot at the end of the 2m6f to land the Irish Field Handicap Hurdle at Fairyhouse.

There were plenty with chances going to the second last in a competitive event but the Barry Connell colours cruised into contention behind the leaders.

Mags Mullins' charge hit the lead before the final flight, under the trainer's son Danny, but Kerb Appeal emerged as a threat at the last.

Marlay Park had plenty in reserve, however, and always looked in command as he quickened for a two-length success.

"The ground is a credit to (manager) Peter Roe. I'm delighted with that. He jumped well and travelled well," said Mags Mullins.

"It was Barry's decision to come here and he was proved right. I'll talk to him about Punchestown now and see if he wants to go there.

"Danny gave him a lovely ride and everything went right.

"He's a lovely horse and I always thought that there was a day in him for something like this.

"I'm delighted and he did it lovely. Barry has been very good to us and has a couple of lovely horses at home. He's great for the game."

"It's nice to get one on a big day and I have to thank Barry and my mother for keeping me on him. The splits came at the right time," added Mullins junior.