Krispen (10/1) came out best after an exciting conclusion to the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Maiden (Plus 10 Race) at Navan.

The Eddie Lynam pair, Soffia (11/10 favourite) and Hot Stone looked like they might get there at various stages but the Ronan Whelan-ridden Krispen just wasn't for passing.

On start number five the Tim Doyle-trained Krispen eventually edged out Hot Stone and Krispen by a neck and a head.

Doyle said in the aftermath: "He's been running well all year. Mentally is his problem as he has plenty of ability and is a real tough horse but he's inclined to do too much too early. He showed today how tough he is as he looked beaten a furlong out and battled back.

"We'll probably put him away now, and he might make into a nice six or seven furlong horse for us next year. He will definitely improve."

(AM & EM)