Highly Efficient took Leopardstown’s closing one mile four furlong maiden for the Ger Lyons/Keagan Latham combination, but not before getting a scare from Maggie Neary

The horse fought out a final furlong battle with Highly Efficient prevailing by a short head at 4/1. He had attracted support off course from 6/1 to 11/4 in the morning, but opened at 7/2 at the track.

The runner-up representing Charlie Swan and Fran Berry looked a winner half a furlong out but couldn’t get past Highly Efficient’s late thrust. She was returned at 9/2, backed in from 11/2.

Successful trainer Ger Lyons said: “I loved his attitude. He stuck at it well.

“I think there’s a bit more improvement in him.”

Reluctant to load Pageboy came home best of the rest in third at 8/1 for David Wachman and Wayne Lordan. Alabelle for Jim Bolger and Kevin Manning was sent off the 6/4 favourite, however, she could only manage fourth.

Michael Graham