MATIN Midi Et Soir arrived from France with a massive reputation last season and there were signs of why when the four-year-old produced a taking performance on his chasing bow in the BetVictor Beginners Chase - sealing a high-quality double on the day for Darragh O’Keeffe, Henry de Bromhead and Robcour.

The French Grade 3 winner, bought privately from Simon Munir, Haras De Saint-Voir and Isaac Souede, failed to fire as 5/2 favourite for a Punchestown Festival Grade 1 on his only Irish appearance last term. This was much more like it from him, though. With main market rival Ballyfad one of several absentees due to drying ground, he took full advantage with a sound jumping display to comfortably see off Zanndabad over the extended two miles and three furlongs. The successful 1/2 favourite was racing in a first-time tongue-tie.