Two for Townend as Heaney delivers

Heaney was hammered into 11/8 favouritism for the concluding Ballinrobe On Course Vets Beginners Chase and he delivered to credit rider Paul Townend with a double (earlier on the mark aboard Pires .

With main market rival Darroun departing at the last with a circuit to go, Heaney's main worry, according to the betting anyway was Dale Street

After taking over from outsider Arnima at the second last, the victorious Flemensfirth gelding stayed on well from the last.

The aforementioned Dale Street followed him home at a distance of three and a half lengths.

Successful handler Tom Taaffe remarked: "It's nice to see the Mayo colours in the winner's enclosure here (the red and green silks of Olivia O'Reilly).

"I'm delighted for Olivia who is a stalwart of the game.

"He deserved that win today and he jumped and travelled well.

"He'll go on bigger tracks now."

Heaney carried some padding on the head-piece of the bridle (see picture), reportedly to relieve the pressure on the poll area. (DM & EM)