Black battles to land spoils

Danny Mullins teamed up with his father Tony as Sammy Black prevailed in a thrilling finish to the Gleesons Butchers Novice Handicap Hurdle at Fairyhouse.

The Barry Connell-owned gelding was sent off 11/8 favourite for the two-miler but had to pull out all the stops to get the job done.

Danny Mullins drove his mount into contention going to the final flight but he had to work hard to wear down Treat Yourself on the run-in.

He got the better of that rival in the closing stages but then had to hold a late lunge from Not For Changing who flew home to get within a neck.

The winner was gaining a deserved success having been runner-up on his previous two starts.

“He was lucky to hold on but it's great to win with him. I think he ran into a very very good horse of Willie's at Punchestown last time," said Tony Mullins.

“I think he'll be rested now and will go out for the summer. I haven't had a winner for a while so it's a relief to get one.”

The winning jockey added:- “He got the job done. He's tough and battled all the way to the line.

“He's a good jumper and is unfortunate he hasn't won a couple more this season. He's alright and I like him.”