Jigalo too strong for Eagles

Jigalo proved a game winner of the '3' Handicap Hurdle at Punchestown, repelling the late challenge of favourite Alpine Eagle

Davy Condon 's mount travelled well into the straight and hit the lead approaching the final flight.

He was strongly pressed by Eagle's Pass and, after getting the better of that rival, had to fend off a late charge from Alpine Eagle to score by a neck.

"I might go chasing with him and keep his handicap mark over hurdles. He could be aimed at the Galway Hurdle," said winning trainer Joanna Morgan.

"He likes good ground. Davy said it wasn't quick and they've done a good job with it. He won at Dundalk and Fran (Berry) said he loved that - and that's real quick.

"He deserves that as he had kept going up in the handicap for being placed."

Andrew McNamara was stood down for six days with concussion after being brought down aboard King Rama The God Of Love slipped up in front of the JP Cahill-trained gelding, leaving him with no chance of staying on his feet.