Carsonstown Boy wins in Perth

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

In front of a crowd verging on 12,000, Graham Lee tracked the long-time leader Mini Beck throughout the extended two-and-a-half-mile contest.

The two had it between them from a long way out but the 5-4 favourite took it up at the second-last and bounded clear to win by nine lengths for Colin McBratney, who sent his charge over from his Downpatrick base in the North.

"He did it nicely in the end," said McBratney.

"He was second here the last day and we were a bit disappointed with that, we thought he would have won.

"But he's gone and won today so we are happy now."

Pilca secured his first win since joining Malcolm Jefferson in the JD Pipes Novices' Handicap.

The well-tried nine-year-old was previously with Declan Carroll, where most of his winning form had come over two miles.

However, Phil Kinsella made a positive move on the 8-1 chance when taking up the running from He's A Hotshot three out and he was soon clear.

His stamina did appear to be running out after the last but he was kept up to his work to record a three-length success.

Midnite Blews (11-1) landed only the second win of his career when making all the running in the Lighthouse Club Construction Industry Charity Novices' Handicap Hurdle.

The four-year-old's previous success had come in a five-furlong claimer at Bath last summer so the fact he was able to add a win over hurdles is some feat.

Michael McAlister was confident early, giving him a head start on his rivals and even though Pete emerged from the pack to challenge, and despite the leader fluffing the last, there were still three and three-quarter lengths separating them at the line.