Fisher took full advantage of the absence of Top Man Michael the subject of a recent purchase, to readily justify prohibitive odds in the opening Kilkenny 3YO Hurdle at Gowran Park.

The Gordon Elliott-trained gelding, successful on his hurdle debut at Galway last month and sent off the 1/4 favourite in the absence of his likely chief market rival, made smooth headway to challenge at the second last.

Barry Geraghty had few anxious moments aboard the former "Dandy" Nicholls-trained youngster, and was full of confidence on the run-in to beat Boss's Star by a facile half length.

The always prominent Crouching Harry was three and a quarter lengths back in third as just five horses faced the starter.

Elliott said, "He's a grand little horse and he's honest. Barry said he wasn't doing a whole lot but he was never going to be beaten. Barry was just sitting against him.

"He should be able to win another one and may go to England for his next run."

(AM & GC)