Lavery lunges late on Sock

Asockastar burst through on the run-in to cause a 25/1 shock in the M.S.D. Animal Health Maiden Hurdle at Listowel.

Declan Lavery produced his mount with a late charge to claim front-runner Pumbaa in the closing stages of the two-miler.

The Pat Colville-trained gelding had been held up in the early stages and had actually gotten reminders after the second flight.

He worked his way into contention in the back straight, however, and was closer turning for home.

Pumbaa was challenged by The Mooch at the final flight but Asockastar soon came between the pair to claim a two-length victory.

“We always thought a nice bit of him but to figure him out was the key,”said Colville.

“His jumping was a little bit off the first couple of days – he needed a little bit of time to learn and adjust but he's getting it together and is a good improving horse.

“We'll tip away for the time being and see. He stays well, on his pedigree he'll get two-and-a-half well, and he'll jump a fence in time as well.

“We'll probably run him in a handicap and progress from there. He'll go over fences next year.

“I was a small bit surprised on the ground but expected a good run. It's my first winner for Michael Fanning, who is a neighbour in Rosegreen, so I'm delighted for him.”

Lavery added:- “They went that quick it suited me and they just came back to me turning in. My lad stayed on and jumped well.”

(Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes)