Murtagh shines on Rome

John Magnier's colours doubled up in the second division of the opening maiden at Dundalk tonight but the David Wachman-trained Imperial Rome was the Coolmore second string.

Johnny Murtagh, riding for his former boss, gave the son of Holy Roman Emperor a finely judged front-running ride.

He kept on well from over a furlong out to post a two-length winning margin over Narjawa

Joseph O'Brien 's mount Long Live The King was sent off even-money favourite to give him a quick double but could only stay on for a never threatening third.