Maeve's Choice emerged on top after a cracking finish to the Fairyhouse Steel Handicap Hurdle.

Matthew Smith 's charge, a winner over the two-mile-six trip at Ballinrobe ten days ago, followed up with another battling success.

Bryan Cooper produced the 10/1 shot to challenge going to the last and he kept on best as four drove for the line.

The Craigsteel gelding recorded a three-parts-of-a-length victory over Spades Are Trumps There was a length-and-a-quarter back to Fred The Foot and another neck to Miles To Memphis

“He travelled really well the whole way,” said Cooper.

“Matthew rang me this morning and he thought he had a right chance. He just told me not to get there too soon as he's a bit leery.

“He got under the last a bit which probably helped him as horses came around him. He won a shade cosily at the end.”