Canford Cliffs fully justified Richard Hannon's faith in his ability with a devastating display to win the Abu Dhabi Irish 2000 Guineas at the Curragh.

An impressive winner of the Coventry Stakes last season, he has been beaten in three subsequent races, including in the English Guineas where he finished third.

Hughes who was always confident aboard the son of Tagula, switched the 9/4 favourite to the outer over a furlong and half out to join the leaders.

The pair soon kicked clear to lead inside the final furlong and stayed on strongly to win by an impressive three lengths.

Richard Hannon Jnr son of the winning trainer stated: “We were a little disappointed (at Newmarket) as he went there to win his race and didn’t but I was happy with the run.”

“I am delighted that he settled very well today and to win at Guineas like that is something.”

“We had to replace his shoe before the race which wasn’t ideal but he is a very relaxed horse.”

“He was working as well as he was when he won the Coventry Stakes so we are very pleased that he went and did it.”