Acapella Bourgeois showed all his battling qualities to fend off Nambour at the end of two and a half miles in the Grade Two Agnelli Motor Park Novice Hurdle at Fairyhouse.

The top weight, under 11-10, led but faced a stern challenge from the smooth-travelling Nambour as the race hotted up.

Nambour appeared to be going much the better coming to the last two hurdles but came off the bridle after the penultimate flight.

Again he looked to have Acapella Bourgeois' measure on the run-in but the latter refused to yield and fought back on the inner to be in front by a head at the winning post.

Acapella Bourgeois won at 5/1 with Nambour an 8/1 shot. Our Duke at 7/1 was two lengths further back in third.

Sandra Hughes said: "He's very, very good. The further he goes the better. He was very tough today, he really battled. He doesn't mind that ground.

"He (Johnny Burke) did exactly what we asked him to do - make all the use of his big stride and kick on when he needed to and that's what he did.

“He does it the hard way having to make the running but he’s got a huge stride. If you impede him in any way he can’t use it but he was able to use it today. Johnny just gave him a breather and kicked when he needed to and just kept going.

“He’s as honest as the day is long and he’s tough. He jumped fantastic today. The track at Thurles didn’t suit him as it’s a bit tight but the track out there today is perfect for him.

“We’ll see how he comes out of the race. He’s improved with each run, and he’s one worth minding. If he’s well he’ll go to Punchestown. It will be either there or the field.”

Additional reporting by Alan Magee