Numerically speaking, this opener wasn't affected badly by non-runners, but the defection of Cabin Point seemed only to point towards Maturus Ardor as the winner of a very ordinary contest. It didn't quite work that way.

Ruby Walsh seemed perfectly happy for the majority of the contest, and when ranging up on the outside to challenge at the second last he looked a certain winner, but he found very little from there and looked to be beaten fair and square.

BUCHAILL DUBH made the arduous trip from Cavan well worthwhile as he made all to score. He paid his hurdles a little bit too much respect early on but jumped better as the pace quickened. He found plenty under pressure when the favourite drew alongside and won well.

Keep Attacking chased the winner for the first mile or so but was struggling from three out, while Tri Folene had her race well run at the third last having been handy enough for the first mile. [JOH]

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