Jockey Keith Mercer faces another lengthy spell on the sidelines after suffering a fall at Kelso yesterday.

Backstage earned a possible tilt at the Galway Plate with his victory in the £20,000 (€23,000) Newwave Recruitment Perth Gold Cup Handicap Chase for trainer Gordon Elliott.

Irish eyes were smiling at a packed Perth as Carsonstown Boy justified strong support in the opening Provost's Plate Challenge Trophy Novices' Hurdle.