Dabirann does the business in Dundalk opener

The Michael Halford-trained Dabirann got on top inside the final furlong to open his account in the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Maiden at Dundalk.

The Aga Khan-owned colt was sent to post 5/4 favourite in the mile contest having finished fourth on his last visit to the track.

He settled behind the leaders today, under Ronan Whelan, before switching to the outer in the straight.

The son of Oasis Dream was driven into contention passing the furlong pole and led in the final 150 yards to record a convincing two-length win over 66/1 shot Cherokee Run

Halford said: "I'd say he is just getting better with racing. The extra furlong brought out the best in him.

"He has a great temperament and is a horse I'd say would get better with racing. He has a great mind and is tough out. He gets the trip well.

"The two runs stood to him I'd say. In his homework, he had stepped forward from the last day.

"I was glad that Morse wasn't there, I had a lot of respect for him. When he wasn't there, I thought on his homework he would be hard to beat.

"A horse for next year and a very solid, sound horse."

(Quotes by Michael Graham)