Monbeg holds on from fast-finishing Sarah

Monbeg Worldwide held the late charge of My Sister Sarah to claim the INH Stallions Owners EBF Novice Hurdle at Fairyhouse.

Davy Russell produce the Gigginstown gelding to challenge turning for home in the two-and-a-half mile contest and the 9/2 shot was driven into the lead going to the last.

8/11 shot My Sister Sarah wasn't fluent two from home, giving her a bit to do, and despite picking up strongly on the run-in she failed by a neck to peg back Monbeg Worldwide.

The Lucarno gelding was following up his maiden hurdle success at over course and distance eight days ago and was giving trainer Gordon Elliott a double on today's card.

The Cullentra handler said:- “Davy said he improved from the last day, and he jumped brilliant.

“It’s hard to believe with the size of him but he actually wants nice ground. We’ll keep him going as long as the ground is okay.

“We might keep him hurdling this year but I’ll have to chat with Michael and Eddie to see what we’ll do. He’s won five races now so we can’t complain.”

(Quotes by Alan Magee)