After disappointing at Punchestown recently Tennis Cap bounced back to his best in the Malton Novice Chase, scoring under Ruby Walsh for Willie Mullins and owner Violet O'Leary.

Settled in third he improved to take closer order entering the straight and he hit the front after the second last.

He was ridden out on the run-in as Shesaportrait stuck to her task well, with just a length and three parts separating the duo at the line.

The winner was returned the easy to back 5/2 favourite having being as short as 6/4 this morning.

Shesaportrait, who ridden by Kevin Sexton for Pat Neville, was well-supported on-course going off an11/2 chance having opened at 7's. Azorian (11/4) finished a disappointing third, a further twenty-four lengths back.

Ruby Walsh said afterwards: "We were worried about the trip but he settled well and got the trip very well.

"I didn't think he was doing a tap out in front and he might improve going further."

Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes