The switch to front-running tactics paid off handsomely for Officieux (7s into 11/2) as he scored on outing number three under Paul Carberry in the Fundraisers At Fairyhouse Maiden Hurdle.

From before the straight it was apparent that favourite, Hostile Fire and Uradel would struggle to bridge the gap and they were twelve lengths and two lengths in arrears at the line.

Well-backed 'second-in' Battle Hymn seemed to jump the fourth last okay but he came to grief almost immediately afterwards.

Winning trainer Noel Meade disclosed: "I fancied him coming here today but Paul said he'd no chance on the ground. He pulled very hard the last day, and I said today to try him in front. He settled in front.

"He has a very strong staying pedigree, and we think he'll be better on better ground." (AM & EM)