Walsh and Mullins back on track with Soldier

Tin Soldier ground out victory in the three-mile maiden hurdle to give Ruby Walsh and Willie Mullins quick compensation at Fairyhouse.

The pair had been out of luck in the previous race when a last flight blunder cost Chambord Du Lys

Tin Soldier got a flyer at the final flight however as he chased down Champagne Classic on the run-in for a length-and-a-quarter.

The 5/2 winner was returning from a 581-day absence and making his first start for the yard since being purchased from France.

“He had a lot of run in France and a lot of runs in high grade races,” said Mullins.

“I didn’t get a handicap mark for him but I thought he might be one of the top rated maidens to run out of our yard anyway.

“He made hard work of that. His French form was all on soft and heavy ground but he might be better on better ground.

“I’m going to keep him to that trip. The bare form of that race he won’t be travelling and he could stay and run back here in Fairyhouse. He probably get an entry in something like the Albert Bartlett but I’d imagine he’ll stay at home for a novice races.”