'That was fun' as Score exhibits jumping prowess

Three defections meant that just three lined-up for the Irish Machinery Auction Beginners Chase, with Full Time Score easily justifying odds-on favouritism.

Off the track for nearly two years, the Henry de Bromhead trained seven-year-old was successful on his return to action, taking a maiden hurdle at Fairyhouse last month.

Sent off the clear market leader at 2/5, the chestnut gelding made all under Rachael Blackmore and jumped with aplomb throughout, coming home an unextended four-and-a-half lengths to the good. Mount Melleray (7/2) was second, while The Second Coming was another length-and-a-quarter away in last.

de Bromhead, who trains the winner for Chris Jones, said: "The first thing Rachael said was 'that was fun'. He was brilliant and that's what he's made to do.

"He's a really exciting horse. I entered him in the 2m 4f Grade 1 (Underwriting Exchange Gold Cup Novice Chase) at Fairyhouse just in case he did something like that. He definitely wants a good ease in the ground."

Additional reporting by Alan Magee