Lilshane galloped on strongly in the closing stages to run out a convincing winner of the two-mile handicap hurdle on the card at Naas.

Thomas O'Connor 's charge made a successful return from injury at Fairyhouse last month and made it back to back wins with a stylish victory.

The 13/2 shot cruised into contention at the second last, under Ger Fox, and kicked on before the final flight.

He powered home on the run-in to record a six-length margin over long-time leader Indian Rupee

"He had a lot of problems last year. We'll keep him hurdling until he's weighted out of it and then he'll go chasing," said O'Connor afterwards. Shabra's Bertolini was set off the 11/4 favourite and finished fifth in a bunch finish behind the clear cut winner.

(Additional reporting by Alan Magee)