Masterson prevails as Hardback crashes out

There was a dramatic conclusion to the New Inn Opportunity Rated Novice Hurdle, with the Gordon Elliott trained Masterson coming home in front.

The 5/2 joint-favourite Hardback JJ Slevin aboard for Joseph O'Brien, and the winner were battling it out from the second last, and it was still very much all to play for when the former crashed out at the final flight.

This left Masterson in clear lead under Chris Meehan, and came home eight lengths to the good, with Vinnie Luck (20s this morning and from 6s to 4s on-course) in second under Barry John Foley for Mick Winters.

The other joint-favourite was Ten Theatre and she was fourth under Paddy Kennedy for Jessica Harrington.

A six time winner on the level for Mick Channon, the grey victor was bought for 15,000 pounds at Tattersalls in June, and he was second on his first two starts for Elliott at Ballinrobe and Downpatrick respectively.

He was as short as 5/2 in early betting shows, but proved friendless with punters, opening on-course at 5s before going off an 8/1 chance.