Gordon Elliott is firing on all cylinders at present as the National Hunt season goes up a gear or two, and the Co. Meath handler brought his tally to 13 winners in the past fortnight as Roman Gold justified good support at Clonmel in the Cashel Maiden Hurdle. Paddy Gunzales set a strong early pace in this two-mile event before Tongie took over in front before halfway.

However Roman Gold's supporters were on good terms with themselves as the Beneficial gelding travelled strongly to lead before two out.

The 11/8 joint favourite (7/4 this morning) soon took control, and Bryan Cooper could afford to take things easy on the run-in as the Gigginstown-owned five-year-old scored readily.

There a gap of six lengths back to the other joint favourite Tongie (also well-backed from 7/4 on track), while For Pedro took third spot.

Cooper said, "It wasn't the greatest of contests but he did it well and anything he does over hurdles will be a bonus as he's a big chaser.

"He is entitled to improve and you wouldn't mind going chasing with him but we'll see where he goes next."

(TW & AM)