The 10 year-old was backed from 5/1 into half those odds and, despite being off the bridle from some way out over this two mile trip, stayed on well under Andrew McNamara to get within five lengths of triple bumper winner Pedrobob.

Hourigan was understandably delighted with Beef Or Salmon's game effort, and commented: "That was a super run and I'm wellpleased.

"It was a good work-out and the plan at the moment is to go for the James Nicholson Champion Chase at Down Royal, although the Betfair Chase at Haydock is also a possibility.

McNamara was also happy with his day's work: "The two miles was too short for him, and he was only getting going in the straight."