Desoto County was a warm order in the Horse And Jockeys Hotel Handicap Hurdle at Thurles and duly collected on his first start for Gordon Elliott.

The English import was supported from 11/4 this morning and went to post the 11/10 favourite for the two-mile contest.

Jack Kennedy produced his mount to lead two out and Cliff House also came through to challenge at the penultimate obstacle.

Desoto County kept on well when asked for an effort before the last and asserted on the run-in to record a length-and-three-quarters victory.

"He had been showing signs and was working well enough at home. He should come on from that,” said Elliott.

"Jack said he was idling in front but it was a nice pot to win. Hopefully he'll be ok and he'll be alright when he jumps a fence in time."

There was drama at the second hurdle as Cliffside Park crashed out and brought down Who's Cross Thankfully horses and riders were quickly back on their feet.

(Quotes by Thomas Weekes)