Halford and Murtagh team up well

Johnny Murtagh produced Michael Halford's well-backed 9/4 favourite Banna Boirche with a powerful late thrust to win the seven furlong handicap at Dundalk a shade cosily by a length and a half.

Banna Boirche was supported in the offices from 5/1 to 7/2 and sustained on-course support saw the gelding's price contract to 9/4.

Halford confirmed his charge's liking for Dundalk. He said: "He had a good run here last time. He loves the surface and we will campaign him here as he is in good form." Alsalwa and Mountain Coral completed the placings.