Paul Gilligan's Harangue was a decisive winner of Kilbeggan's two and a half mile handicap chase with David Mullins booting him home well clear.

The duo raced close to the pace predominantly in fourth place. They still had plenty of rivals to take care of as no less than eight horses were in a bunch racing to the second last.

The leader, Ballyfinboy was less than fluent at that fence and Harangue and Survival came through to head him.

A slick jump at the last (ordinarily the second last but the last was omitted due to the low-lying sun) took Harangue into the lead on his own from Survival. There was a long run left for home but Harangue forged on strongly and was clear entering the final furlong.

He came in seven lengths to the good at 8/1. Galboystown Lady at 25/1 finished second. She was three and three parts of a length up on Survival (15/2).

Paul Gilligan said: "He's very unpredictable but he's alright when he puts it in. He has a mind of his own but it is good for Sean (Conroy, owner). The Galway Blazers might be the only race for him at Galway." Shield and Allied Victory the 9/2 joint favourites, made no impression in 10th and 12th respectively. The latter was backed down from 7/1 on opening show.

Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes