Jumping the key as Raptor scores

In a similar vein to the opening winner, Raptor produced brilliant efforts over the final two fences when the need was greatest and his cause was also aided by Slieveardagh coming down at the last in the 10 Euro Admission Chase at Punchestown.

Favourite backers had concerns for their investment when Raptor (11/8) briefly seemed a little flat-footed into the straight but the grey soon picked up for Ruby Walsh and he went on from two out. Slieveardagh was struggling to bridge the gap but he still had every chance when a 'hit or miss' attempt over the final fence saw the King's Theatre gelding end up on the floor.

Winning trainer Willie Mullins was away looking at horses and he was represented by his son Patrick who said: "He'll stay on the go and all the Festivals, the likes of Galway and Listowel will be on his agenda.

"Ruby thought the extra two furlongs helped today and he seems to like the ground. Two and a quarter or two and a half mile races will be where he'll run." (AM & EM)