The Signature Novice Hurdle saw a thrilling finish with the two market principles Glenstal Abbey (1/1) and Dual Gales (11/4) battling it all the way to the line with the latter getting up closing stages in the hands of Ruby Walsh for trainer Willie Mullins.

Winning trainer Mullins said afterwards, “I thought Ruby was very good there, he just locked jaw for 2 1/4 miles. If he had got away from him at any stage the race was over. It just goes to show the strength of a man he is because that horse was so free.”

“If I can find another novice hurdle we will go for that. I will have a look at Killarney and Listowel but he could quite possibly go chasing this season.”

“I was worried about him getting up the hill but he had a wind operation last year and it was obviously a major success.”