Desert Al got a split just in time to claim the apprentice handicap at Dundalk for Owen Weldon.

Padraig Beggy squeezed through on the rail in the closing stages to get up for a three-parts victory over Faynita

"It's nice to get a run with him. He's only had six runs in the past two years with getting balloted out," said Weldon.

"He's in again next Friday with a bit of luck and the six furlongs will suit him better. "

It was the Dunboyne handler's first winner since the same horse scored at Down Royal in June 2007.