Fairly sprinting clear from there, the 5-1 favourite had 12 lengths in hand of Clar Na Mionn, with another nine lengths back to the gallant Kylecrue in third.

Moore, riding the 14th winner of his career and who joined Meade in August, said: “He gave me a great spin all the way round.

“I wanted to get some cover, I didn’t want to get involved too early and when I asked him to come long at the third-last down the back he came for me and I set my stall out at that stage.

“The boss told me on Friday morning I was riding him and I was delighted. I’m just thankful to the boss and the owners for putting me up.

“We really fancied him, he’s been in great order – everything suggested he was going to run a big race and he did.

“He travelled so well, he takes you into every fence, but I didn’t want to use him up early so I’m glad I got him settled where I did.

“He stayed very well, there was no form to suggest he’d go on that ground, either. He’s only a six-year-old and I’m sure there’s still some improvement in him.”