The veteran Maal made a winning return to action with a battling success in the mile handicap at Limerick.

Colm O'Donoghue gave the eight-year-old a well judged ride, holding him up early before producing him with a strong run in the straight.

David Marnane 's charge hit the front over a furlong from home and stuck his head out gamely to beat off the attentions of Northern Rocked inside the final furlong. Cave Artist finished best of all to get up close home for the second spot.

"He's a great old horse and that's his seventh win now," said Marnane afterwards.

"He won everything from a bumper to a mile and is very versatile. I would say the ground helped today.

"He won't try hurdling again. We'll keep him to the Flat. I've only had a few runnners so far but hopefully now there will be more coming out and I'm hoping this is a good omen."