The odds-on victory was the middle leg of a near 27/1 treble for in-form jockey David Casey. Casey oozed confidence on the Frenchbred gelding, eventually allowing him to go to the front at the last and coming home on a tight rein to score by a facile length and a half.

"I'm delighted with that and it was a huge performance to carry a penalty and win like that. He jumped better as they went faster and David [Casey] said he handled the better ground well.

I'd say he'll go for the Triumph Hurdle now, " said trainer Willie Mullins.

Mullins and Casey were also on the mark earlier on the card in the Tattersalls Ireland Mares Beginners Chase where Queen Astrid was strongly fancied to make a winning start over fences.

However, the Dermot Weldtrained mare was a spent force before the straight as Sunami Storm ran out an impressive winner. "She disappointed us at Navan last time but David said she was a different horse today. We may find a winners race for her or she could go for the final of this series at Uttoxeter next month, " Mullins said.

Jirlan completed the Casey treble in the third race of the day, and a four-timer for Casey looked a distinct possibility as Time Discloses All travelled well into the straight on in the two miles maiden hurdle. However, a mistake at the last put paid to his chance as Drummer First kept on well for Denis O'Regan to hold the late challenge of The Roney Man by a length to claim the spoils.