Roost rewards support on handicap debut

Robin De Roost stuck on gamely to open his account 'under rules' in the Download And Bet With Ladbrokes Handicap Chase at Punchestown.

Tm Gibney 's charge, a former point-to-point winner, made his first start in handicap company over fences this evening and was given a positive ride by Jonathan Moore.

The 9/1 shot soon disputed and lead over the sixth last. He has his rivals at work turning for home and responded well on the run-in Eight Till Late and Ocean Glandore pressed, holding those rivals at bay by half a length and a neck.

The winner had been well beaten on four previous chase outings, albeit in good company, but came in for support today. He had traded at 20/1 this morning.

"He wanted better ground and he saves a bit for himself so we said we'd try cheek-pieces. This grade is much more his cup of tea,” said Gibney.

"It's great for (owner) Derek Kierans as he's a great supporter."

There was drama three from home in the two-and-a-half mile contest with The Living Beauty falling and bringing down Pulled Muscle and Urtheoneiwant

(Quotes by Alan Magee)