The pre-race talk was about Deeds Not Words (finished sixth) early, and then pretty dramatically about Fastidious (8/1 into 15/8 favourite in the ring — finished seventh). Out on the track those two, and the rest, were upstaged by top-weight Dark Alliance in the Christmas Party Nights At Dundalk Stadium Apprentice Handicap.

Ten pound claimer Robert Smithers registered a second success by getting the Shane Reville-owned and Michael Halford-trained Dark Alliance home by three parts of a length from Stamp Of Authority

Dark Alliance dwelt at the stalls and he raced in the rear. The Dark Angel five-year-old made good headway on the outer from the quarter mile pole to lead well inside the final furlong, keeping on well in the closing stages for the win.

"I'm delighted for young Robert. He's been with us for a while now and things are starting to happen for him," said Halford.

"He's riding well and gave him a lovely ride as he's not the easiest. The race needs to unfold for him and he kept a lovely cool head.

"The horse deserves it, he had some decent form. He holds an entry in the horses-in-training sales next week and we'll see where we go now.

"I have to thank the owner for letting Robert stay on him. He gave him a good ride the last night and it was good to be able to take the 7lb off."

The Stewards enquired into an incident in the closing stages involving Dark Alliance, ridden by R.A. Smithers, placed first and Stamp Of Authority, ridden by A.J. Breslin, placed second.

Evidence was heard from the riders concerned. Having viewed the recording of the race and considered the evidence, the Stewards were of the opinion that R.A.Smithers was in breach of Rule 214, in that he rode carelessly and having considered his record, severely cautioned him concerning his future responsibilities in this regard.

C.J. McGovern, rider of Zylan trained by David Marnane, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount hung left in running.

(GC & EM)