The Noel Meade-trained Monasterboice dug deep to break his maiden at Killarney tonight at the ninth attempt.

Having been placed on four previous occasions, the most recently at Fairyhouse a week ago, the Mehmas gelding went to post 11/8 favourite to made the breakthrough.

Colin Keane bounced out in front on his mount but he was joined over a furlong from home by newcomer Convincing

Monasterboice asserted in the closing stages, pulling away for a two-and-three-quarter length success. Flying Bay who had tracked the winner early, stayed on again to grab the runner-up spot close home.

Keane said:- "It was his first time running at a mile and he also made the running. In the past he travelled well into races and maybe just didn't go through with it as well as today.

"We thought he'd have done this a long time ago so getting his head in front might sweeten him up. He is by Mehmas but in time he might get further."

(Quotes by Tom Weekes)