Cill Mocheallog makes most in Gowran opener

Cill Mocheallog made most of the running and rallied gamely inside the final furlong to land the opening Societies Welcome At Gowran Park Maiden.

The 2/1 shot was headed by Ebanza inside the final quarter mile but the 11/8 favourite wandered under pressure and Billy Lee ’s mount got back up to just prevail by a short-head.

The pair stretched six and a half lengths clear of Rodeeve in third.

Winning trainer Paddy Twomey said, “Dundalk wasn’t an ideal surface for him but I felt it was a good race to start him in at that stage of the year.

“We were drawn 18 but I felt if he broke well that he’d have a chance.

“He’s a nice horse and has been working well since he ran in Dundalk and hopefully he can continue his progression.

“Phoenix Of Spain is a nice stallion and has had plenty of good winners and a third in the Guineas the other day.

“We’ll see how he gets rated and decide whether to go for a handicap or a winners race.”