The Noel Meade trained Monksland justified 4/6 favouritism to win the opening Kells Maiden Hurdle at Navan today.

Jockey Paul Carberry held the son of Beneficial up in mid-division and although the pair came under pressure in fifth at the second last, stayed on well in the closing stages for a length win over Bombadero

Afterwards Meade stated “Paul said Monksfield was really struggling on that ground but said he always felt the he’d win.

“He’ll be much better suited by better ground and actually did well to win as he’s been held up with a bruise in his foot after he ran in the North. He is obviously a very clear-winded horse and could go further, but better ground is really the main thing with him.”