“That was great. It was a brave call to come here on his first start and thankfully he hung on,” said winning trainer Gavin Cromwell in the aftermath of Grade 2 O'Driscolls Irish Whiskey Juvenile Hurdle at Leopardstown, landed by jumping debutant Hello Neighbour (9/4 favourite).

Keith Donoghue got the unbeaten Harzand gelding (2 from 2 on the Flat) cross the line by a short head from Lady Vega Allen as she led home her Willie Mullins stable companion Sony Bill in third. Seven lengths split those.

“He was keen in snatches in the race and because of that he didn't jump as well as he can do," further reflected Cromwell.

“I think when he learns to settle better in races he'll be better again. It's a good result.”

When asked if he'll return here for the Dublin Racing festival he added:- “For sure.”

(GC & EM)