Chief much too strong at Roscommon

Chief Of Panama down the field on his last visit to Roscommon, in June, fared out much better on a return try at the Racecourse Road venue, landing the Tote Mobile Betting Handicap Hurdle under David Mullins.

Liam Cusack 's charge was never far away, and he hit the front entering the straight.

Favourite Rock On Rosie and Deadly Catch chased hard before the last, but the winner cleared that very efficiently and powered away on the run-in.

At the line he had four lengths, a length and a half, and a short head in hand over Rock On Rosie, Lunch Master and Deadly Catch.

"That was great. I felt there was probably another hurdle race in him," said Cusack.

"The ground in Cork was a shade quick for him. He was there turning in but flattened out.

"He travelled well within himself today and David gave him a lovely ride. He seems better with a bit of ease.

"I had thought I might go over fences with him, but the way he won there we'll see what is coming up, and what the handicapper does with him. I think he'll be a nice chaser."

The Turf Club Veterinary Officer examined Tabac Brun (FR), at the request of a representative of trainer, Miss Elizabeth Doyle, and reported the animal to be lame post race.

(GC & EM)