Speedacus emerged on top after a thrilling finish to the featured Irish Stallion Farms EBF Premier Nursery at Navan this afternoon.

Seven of the eight runners were spread across the track a furlong from home in the five-furlong contest.

Speedacus, who had been prominent throughout on the near side, stuck his head out in the closing stages to gain a neck victory over Jarvis

The 17/2 winner was opening his account at the sixth attempt having been placed twice in maiden company, including over course and distance in July.

“We're delighted with that, we thought he was due it,” said Cotter.

“We thought he warranted huge respect on his maiden run here behind Geocentric but he was easy to back.

“He needs quick ground and Declan was even complaining a bit today that the ground was over-watered. It's very hard to get good to firm ground in this country.

“I'd imagine he'll go for the listed race over five in Dundalk next month. We said he had to win here today to warrant going for that.

“That's a nice pot today. He has loads of pace and we were delighted to see the way he battled to the line there. We thought he was going to get swallowed but he didn't.”