In first-time cheek-pieces Via Ballycroy was popular in the betting this morning finding a starting price of 6/1 from 10s earlier and she got the job done under Shane Foley in the Floodlit Friday Nights At Dundalk Maiden. Candlehill Girl got a great run up the rail inside the final quarter mile. However she couldn't resist the late rush of Via Ballycroy down the outer, a length and three parts separating them at the line.

The grey, Epic Encounter caught the eye coming home well for third, half a length adrift.

Meanwhile market-leader Feathers And Bows couldn't secure a clear passage in the straight and she had to settle for eighth.

Mick Halford trains Via Ballycroy, a daughter of Lawman, for the Rollx Syndicate and the Copper Beach Stables handler said: "The surface is a big help to her. I was a bit worried where she was drawn (in thirteen) but Shane did well on her.

"We decided to put cheek-pieces on as we were getting a bit frustrated. On some of her form she was well entitled to win a maiden.

"She's got stronger throughout the year and hopefully she can go on from here.

"I have plenty of fresh horses at home. So many of them have been waiting for decent ground." (AM & EM)