Director's Forum deserved a success after some admirable efforts in the past and the Pivotal gelding shed his maiden tag at the eleventh attempt in the Follow Punchestown On Facebook & Twitter Novice Handicap Hurdle under Danny Mullins.

The Barry Connell-owned chestnut hasn't always been the strongest of finishers but supporters of the well-fancied 9/2 shot were on good terms with themselves from some way out on this occasion.

Having said that, a quick jump at the last was certainly helpful in the end as Director's Forum held on by a length from the favourite, Hop In with just half a length back to Roman General in third.

Winning trainer Jessica Harrington stated: "I thought he was well handicapped. He's in again at Fairyhouse on Wednesday, in the same grade, and we'll see how he comes out of this.

"He travelled very well today and he jumped well for his first handicap." (AM & EM)