Sizing Alberta stepped up considerably from a disappointing first run for Colm Murphy at Sligo last month to take the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon Maiden Hurdle.

The French-bred gelding, owned by Alan and Ann Potts, was prominent throughout and the 4/1 chance struck the front three out.

Davy Russell ’s mount was just over a length clear of 4/7 favourite Captain Barbossa when the latter blundered and unseated Barry Geraghty at the final flight.

That left Sizing Alberta to stay on well on the run-in to beat Bomber Jackson by four lengths, with long-time leader Shanaway weakening another 17 lengths away in third.

Murphy said, “I'm delighted. The more rain the better for him. The closer I was getting to Roscommon and the more rain that came I was happier.

“I shouldn't have run him in Sligo as it was too tight and things just didn't happen for him.

“I'll have a word with Mr & Mrs Potts now and make a plan from there. The further the better for him. He's not blessed with gears but keeps going.”

(GC & AM)