Cecil Corbett gained a deserved victory with a cosy success in the opening maiden hurdle at Downpatrick today.

Gordon Elliott 's charge was sent off a warm order for the 2m2f contest, to put an end to a sequence of four runner-up efforts.

It proved plain sailing for the 2/5 shot (8/11 in morning) as he tackled front-runner Rufino over the second last and soon eased into the lead under Paul Carberry.

Itshard To No tried to make inroads after the final flight but never looked like getting to the winner, who had plenty in the tank as he posted a two-and-three-quarter length victory.

"He deserved to win on form. He won snug enough. He's a big chaser. We might try and win a novice then go chasing," said Elliott.

When asked how many winners he would be happy with (as he has five good chances today) he replied: "I'm happy with one, it keeps the job going and takes the pressure off!"

(Additional reporting by Michael Graham)