Militry Decoration prevailed in a tight finish as Pat Smullen recorded a quick double at Dundalk tonight to move him within two winners of Colin Keane in the title race.

Smullen tracked the leaders on Michael O'Callaghan's charge before hitting the front a furlong-and-a-half from home.

The well backed 3/1 shot (13/2 this morning) held on gamely in the closing stages, as 201/shot Smiling Eliza ran on, to record a head verdict.

The winner had been third in a maiden behind Kew Gardens in Killarney on his last outing and was making his handicap debut tonight.

“He’s been running consistent in maidens, and I felt seven furlongs is probably his right trip,” said Smullen.

“He took to the surface well, and when I got challenged he showed a good attitude and stuck out his head to the line.”

(Quotes by Alan Magee)