Sambremont battles for Mullins/Walsh double

Ruby Walsh completed a double for Willie Mullins at Tramore but it proved tough for another odds-on shot as Sambremont took the 2m5f maiden hurdle.

The French-import, who had been third on his Irish debut at Clonmel last month, was sent off an 8/15 shot to get off the mark today.

He had to be driven into contention at the second last, however, and Perfect Woman proved a stubborn foe.

It was only on the run-in that the hotpot got on top to record a hard fought length-and-three-quarters success.

"I was disappointing with his run the first day so I'm delighted that he pulled out with a victory today,"said Mullins.

"He is more of a chaser than a hurdler but he will probably stay novice hurdling this year. We will up him in trip as well. I think he will probably be better when the ground gets better.

"Ruby said it was hard work to get him going but once he did he stayed on really well. It looked like he was going to be beaten going to the last but coming to the line he was pulling out. He is a full-brother to Djakadam."

Walsh and Mullins had claimed the opener with Avant Tout who also had to work hard to justify a price of 4/9.

(Additional reporting by Donal Murphy)