Darkest Flyer was given a front-running ride by Sean Flanagan to prevail in the extended two and a half mile rated novice hurdle at Sligo.

The 11/10 favourite (from 2/1 on opening show) looked vulnerable when he came off the bridle after the second last, as Snugsborough Hall loomed large on the outer under a motionless David Mullins.

However, Darkest Flyer kept grinding it out and came to the last with a narrow advantage.

He knuckled down to his task on the run-in to stay on best and assert in the final 100 yards to win by three and three quarter lengths.

Snugbsborough Hall had no answers on the run-in and had to settle for second at 3/1 (from 9/4).

Trainer Noel Meade said: “It made up for the last day [when second at Ballinrobe at 4/7]. They went no gallop and he sat in. It was just a mistake as we didn't know the horse that well, he does stay really well.

“With 10lbs less on his back it looked a free one but we missed it. Talk about getting a certainty beaten, that's what we did.

“We thought he mightn't handle the ground today but it's loose and he got through it. Three miles is more his trip really.

“It's soft but not too bad considering the amount of rain we came through coming here.

“They are still galloping home in it so it can't be that bad. They must have done a great job on the draining.”

Additional reporting by Gary Carson