Lignou strikes as Native crashes out

The complexion of the two-and-a-half mile maiden hurdle at Gowran changed with the exit of 4/9 favourite Grangeclare Native four from home. Lignou who had been upsides the hotpot, was left in the lead and battled well in the closing stages to get the job done for trainer Noel Meade.

Sean Flanagan kept the Gigginstown gelding going in the closing stages to record a six-length win over Fest Deiz

The 5/1 winner had been fourth on his return to action at Navan last month.

“He won two bumpers in France but when he came to us his movement was very ordinary,” said Meade.

“I think the long time off has done him a lot of good. He didn't jump before but it's better now.

“It's hard to know what would have happened with Gordon's horse but that's the way it is.

“The handicapper shouldn't do much with his mark after that. I'd imagine he'll run in a handicap next. He might be able to come back to two miles on softer ground.

“I thought he had come on from Navan and the girl that rides him out all the time thought he had come on a good bit.

“He wasn't cheap (€120,000) when he was bought in Deauville. It's taken a while to get it out of him.”