Willie Mullins dominated the Punchestown For Events Beginners Chase - but not in the order the betting suggested as Net D'Ecosse prevailed in a blanket finish.
Willie Mullins dominated the Punchestown For Events Beginners Chase - but not in the order the betting suggested as Net D'Ecosse prevailed in a blanket finish.
The market leader was Mullins' Blazer, owned by JP McManus, but with half a mile to run Barry Geraghty was having to ride his mount to stay in contention.
Peoples Park, also owned by McManus and trained by Tom Taaffe, was going well at the head of affairs but Mullins' Net D'Ecosse (2-1), owned by Gigginstown House Stud, headed him approaching the last. A slow leap handed the initiative back to Peoples Park and he looked sure to hold on, only for Bryan Cooper to galvanise Net D'Ecosse and put his head in front right on the line.
Blazer got going all too late, flashing home to be only beaten a nose and a head in third.
"He was a bit fortunate, but jumped well until the last," said Mullins of the winner.
"I'd say he will go up in trip. Christmas will probably come a bit soon and we'll find something for him in the New Year."
He added: "Blazer jumped well, but just didn't have enough speed when they quickened. He'll go out in trip as well."