Puyol proved a timely tonic for trainer John Mulhern when landing the MCR Hurdle at Leopardstown today.

The Curragh handler is currently recovering from serious illness and is sure to be buoyed by the big-race success of his charge.

The Zaffaran gelding was produced with a perfectly-timed run by John Cullen to lead at the last.

He kept on well in the closing stages to score by half-a-length from Tawaagg as the pack charged home behind him.

Willie Mullins, trainer of Tawaagg filled the minor places as C'est Ca finished third and Tarkari took the fourth.

"He's not ungenuine - he's just been beaten by better horses," said assistant trainer Stephen McCarthy about the winner, who has been placed on his last three starts.

"The strong gallop and big field suited him and he jumped great. The 10st 10lb on his back also suited as he's not big - there is not much in front of you when you are sitting on him.

"Consistency is his middle name. With that weight on his back he could win another one but I'd say he'll get a few pounds for that!

"The boss is recovering slowly but surely and this will be a proper tonic for him. He said if he won today he would go novice chasing and that's the plan."

There was a slight sting in the tail for Cullen, who picked up a day's whip ban for excessive frequency.