Queen Blossom rallied gamely in the closing stages to make a winning debut for Patrick Prendergast in the median auction maiden at Cork.

Fran Berry was recording a quick double, having landed the previous sprint handicap on Enter The Red and it was a perfect day at the office with his only two rides on the card winning.

The 16/1 shot was prominent throughout and hit the front with two furlongs to run.

She was soon tackled by well-backed Dermot Weld newcomer Footbridge (4/1 in morning into 6/4 favourite) and he looked set to prevail when gaining a narrow lead a furlong out.

Queen Blossom battled back to put her head in front again inside the final 100 yards, however, and record a half length success.

"She is going to improve hugely as nothing has gone right for her this year. We had her in the Moyglare but she had a bad dose of ringworm, and she has grown three inches since we broke her," revealed Prendergast.

"She has never come off the bridle before. She is all legs and could be a good filly when she strengthens up.

"We'll see how she is but I'd say she will be very tired in the morning and it's doubtful if she will run again this season."

Berry added:- "She is a tall, leggy filly and is unfurnished. She showed great determination, and when she was headed she never flinched."

(Quotes by Alan Magee)