Mullacash Buzz and Oisin McSweeney (far side) beat Little Keilee © Photo Healy Racing
Mullacash Buzz was all out to repel Little Keilee in a driving finish to the seven-furlong handicap at Dundalk.
Thomas Dowling 's charge made the running and was tackled by his market rival inside the final furlong.
There was nothing between the pair late on with Mullacash Buzz just finding a bit more at the line, for Oisin McSweeney, to secure a short-head success.
It was a fourth course and distance winner for the 3/1 favourite.
McSweeney said: "It was a bit too close for comfort for me, but he held on.
"I was making the running, so I wasn't going to shoot myself in the foot. I was able to get it nice and easy in front.
"I can't say I was as confident now (that he was up), I turned around to Scott (McCullagh, Little Keilee) after the line and asked him did he think he was up, but he wasn't sure either.
"I was in England for a few years and the standard of rider was very good over there, but there is just not as much racing here and everyone kind of gets their few rides. You want to be on the ball when you get on a horse that is fancied. Not too many of them come around.
"These races are very good - I'm delighted to be up here riding in Dundalk.
"I had two concussions, so it left me on the sidelines for a while, but sure we are here now and we are healthy."
(Quotes by Michael Graham)
