O'Connell hits back with double

Brian O'Connell bounced back from Cheltenham disappointment when booting home a double at Down Royal today.

O'Connell, who attracted some criticism after Dunguib finished third in the Supreme Novices Hurdle yesterday answered in great style with a brace at the northern track. Barney King was produced with a well-timed run to claim the Martinstown Opportunity Handicap Hurdle for John Carr. Caim Hill completed the double when running out a cosy winner of the three-mile beginners chase.

Philip Fenton 's charge was sent to the front two from home and came home a two-length winner over Bear Witness

"That's racing. You have good days and bad days," said O'Connell after the second winner.

"Everybody's entitled to their opinion. My job is riding horses and I don't worry about anything else."

"This is a lovely horse. He lost his way a bit but is back to himself now and the better ground helped."