Angel strikes for Comer and Crosse

Luke Comer's Angel Above proved tough as she ground out victory in the fillies maiden at Dundalk.

Nathan Crosse was soon disputing on the 12/1 shot as she duelled for the lead with Vittoria Colanna in the seven furlong contest.

The daughter of Second Thought had a narrow advantage passing the furlong pole and found plenty close home to hold the late challenge of Lily Maguire by a neck.

Angel Above was making her fourth career start and had an official mark of 68. It was a first winner for her sire, a three-time Listed winner on the all-weather in England for William Haggas.

Crosse said: "I'm very happy. Mr Comer and Jim (Gorman, assistant trainer) were very happy with her. They said to jump out and keep it simple, she's had a good bit of experience now.

"We were going hard early and once I got there, we could set our own fractions. As soon as Billy Lee came to me on Mr McCreery's horse (Lily Maguire), she stuck her neck out very well, she wasn't for stopping.

"She did look very fit but I think there is still improvement in her, she was carrying a little bit of condition and I think she will come on from that."

(Quotes by Michael Graham)