The Joseph O'Brien-trained Shakespear'sgalley stayed on stoutly in the closing stages to run out a convincing winner of the Executive Marquees Handicap at Down Royal.

Shane Crosse soon settled the well-backed 7/4 favourite (9/2 in morning) in behind the leaders before producing him to dispute going to the three furlong marker.

He was driven to assert a furlong-and-a-half from home and was in control thereafter as he recorded a two-and-a-half lengths success over Walking On Glass

The winner had finished sixth at the Curragh last weekend having previously won in Killarney.

Crosse said afterwards: "He's probably a proper two miler and we went slow which didn't suit and I got a gap kind of five (furlongs) out which was a bit soon, but I had to take it because I needed to kick on because he stays well. To be fair to him he is very genuine.

"He's had three quick races and he's still going, so hopefully he can keep improving. He sticks his head out and he tries, that's half the battle."

(Quotes by Michael Graham)