Sayo recorded his third win for connections when justifying favouritism in the Joe Cooney Memorial Hurdle at Kilbeggan.

The Willie Mullins-trained gelding promised much a few seasons back when third to Farclas in the Triumph Hurdle but has been generally disappointing following over a year on the sidelines.

However, this extended 2m3f conditions hurdle represented a good opportunity and the six-year-old grey was never too far from the pace.

Paul Townend sent the 10/11 shot on about half a mile out and he kept on strongly in the closing stages to beat Dolciano Dici by seven and a half lengths, with Ornua a further three and a half lengths back in third.

Townend said, “It’s good to get a win from him again. He promised so much as a young horse and the cheek pieces helped for a sharp track like this and also helped to sharpen up his jumping.

“We fancied him at Galway but his jumping wasn’t the best and in fairness this race was a good find for him.

“He went novice chasing last year and he probably wasn’t in love with it but that will do his confidence the power of good.

“I’d imagine he’ll mix it between hurdles and the Flat but I’ll leave that to Willie.”