Big Robert sprang a 33/1 shock when coming from behind to run out a cosy winner of the Irish Lincolnshire at the Curragh.

The Paul Deegan-trained entire missed the break but worked his way into contention from halfway.

He hit the front a furlong-and-a-half from home, under Kieran O'Neill, and kept on strongly to score by two lengths from Harriers Call

"His work has always been absolutely brilliant but we were really starting to lose faith with him the way he was running," said Deegan.

"I always thought he liked the all-weather but I don't think he does now. The cheekpieces and a brilliant ride from Kieran helped - he just kidded him along.

"He was going to get an entry to go jumping if he didn't run better today and has just saved himself from a hurdling career for the moment.

"The last few weeks his work has been outstanding. I'm delighted for (owner)Mark Gittins and Kieran."