Earls ploughed through the ground at Naas this afternoon to record back to back victories in the Kessaar Handicap.

Garvan Donnelly 's charge had won the same race last year and the 9/2 shot recorded his first victory since then when running out a convincing length-and-a-half winner of the five furlong contest.

Wayne Lordan settled his mount mid-division before coming with a strong run to lead a furlong out and secure a fourth career victory for the Dream Ahead gelding.

“He's been knocking on the door all year but just never got that real heavy ground, that's the key to him,” said Donnelly.

“Five furlongs is probably a bit sharp for him but when he gets heavy ground it brings him into play.

“I'm delighted, Martin (Sheridan) is a great supporter and has great patience. He won it last year and we were confident coming here today.

“It worked out and the rain came for him. That's probably it as Dundalk's not really for him.

“He's been to Galway, Listowel, he's done them all. He's a great little horse.”