Grey Monk made hard work of landing the odds in the Slaney Maiden Hurdle at Wexford.

The Henry de Bromhead-trained gelding was sent off 1/3 favourite to open his account over timber having been placed on both starts last season.

Andrew Lynch drove him into the lead turning for home in the 2m2f event but he was strongly pressed going to the final flight by Dave's Stamper

That rival pecked at the last, however, handing the advantage to the hotpot and he went on for a length-and-a-quarter success.

“I'm delighted he's won. Wexford is possibly not his track,” said de Bromhead.

“Andrew felt that he wanted further and said he was staying on well after the last. Either faster over that trip or further is what he wants.

“He might jump a fence next – he jumps very well. I'll speak to the owners (Alan & Ann Potts).

“I'll see what mark he gets over hurdles – he could run in a handicap. He hasn't run since March so he should improve for the run.”

(Additional reporting by Donal Murphy)