Federal looks smart on debut

Federal quickened up nicely to make a winning debut for Joseph O'Brien in the opening Irish Stallion Farms EBF Maiden at Leopardstown.

Declan McDonogh produced the Zoffany colt with a strong run inside the final furlong and he got on top in the last 50 yards for a cosy success in the colours of Lloyd Williams.

The 15/2 winner did hang a bit left close home but was in control as he posted a length verdict over Alqabeela in the newcomers event.

Ballydoyle colt Harvard was sent off 10/11 favourite in the seven-furlong contest and finished fourth after running greenly.

“He showed a nice bit in the spring but he started growing. He's not the biggest horse in the world but he filled out a bit more and he gave him a bit of time,” said assistant Brendan Powell.

“He's done that nicely in the end. Declan said he always knew he was going to win.

“He was a bit slow out of the gate but he picked up and he didn't have to give him a smack either.

“He had a little look around but all he can do is improve from it. He could be a nice type of horse. Declan said the ground was just on the slow side and he loved it.”