Willie Mullins' Roi Des Francs claimed the scalp of highly-regarded stable companion Pont Alexandre in the Grade Two Woodlands Park 100 Club Novice Chase at Naas.
Pont Alexandre returned from a lengthy spell on the sidelines to make a sparkling debut over fences last month, and the 4-7 favourite cruised to the front when heading long-time leader Sub Lieutenant on the run to two out.
But Roi Des Francs (13-8) was going equally well and a slightly better leap at the last saw him away from the obstacle quicker.
His proven stamina kicked in at that point and he battled on to a length-and-a-half victory in the hands of Bryan Cooper.
Roi Des Francs was having his third outing over fences and Mullins felt his extra experience probably told over Pont Alexandre, who had run once in chase company previously.
"I think Pont Alexandre will improve more for the run" - Willie Mullins
"It was a good performance. He had the extra run and probably fitness was the thing there," said Mullins.
"He likes jumping and galloping and it worked out for him. He's improving. He'll be stuck in all the races at Cheltenham, the RSA and four-miler (National Hunt Chase)."
Of Pont Alexandre, Mullins added: "It was his second run back after a long break. He was very well in the parade ring beforehand which is not a great sign. He was maybe too well.
"He was there up until the last having gone toe to toe with the leader early on. It wasn't a bad run and they are two good horses. I think he'll improve more for the run."
Sempre Medici proved a class apart from his rivals in the Limestone Lad Hurdle at Naas.
Mullins' six-year-old was sent off the 1-8 favourite on the back of an excellent second in the International Hurdle at Cheltenham and raced in third of the four runners in this Grade Three.
He made his move when hitting the front approaching the final flight and although Massini's Trap tried to go with him, Sempre Medici had far too many gears and eased clear in the hands of Ruby Walsh to triumph by five lengths.
"He didn't jump great but did what he had to do at the ratings. I thought he jumped one hurdle in the whole race," said Mullins.
"I don't know where we'll go next. The Red Mills Hurdle might be a good plan for him.
"That's plenty far enough for him against that opposition. Maybe over the longer trip he wasn't jumping as well. When he has to gallop, he jumps better."
Boylesports make him 16-1 from 25-1 for the Betfair Hurdle.
