Jockey Shane Hassett came in for praise from winning trainer John McConnell following his win on Royal Approval in the Pat O'Hare Bookmakers Rosebank Hurdle at Downpatrick today.

Winner of the corresponding race last year, the gelded son of Royal Applause got to the front at the second last flight, but needed to battle back inside the final furlong to eventually defeat 5/4f Absolute Image by a head.

McConnell later stated "Shane (Hassett) gave him a lovely ride but he said he may have hit the front a little early. Royal Approval won this race last year and will run again at Ballinrobe tomorrow, in a Flat handicap, provided he is ok in the morning - he is a tough horse who takes his racing well."