Envoi Allen eased to a comfortable win to land an 11th consecutive victory under rules at Punchestown today.
The Cheltenham festival winner took the honours in the Sky Bet Killiney Novice Steeplechase, in what was described as an 'anti-climax' by trainer Gordon Elliott.
A highly competitive race over the two and a half miles was expected, with Asterion Forlonge tipped to provide the strongest challenge.
However, the Willie Mullins-trained horse was an early faller, allowing Envoi Allen to power home to victory on a heavy track.
Jack Kennedy was aboard to land the Grade Three.
Speaking afterwards, he said it was a disappointment that the perceived battle between Envoi Allen and Asterion Forlonge did not materialise.
"We're delighted with him, he couldn't have done anymore," he said.
"It's great, it's a pity Asterion Forlonge fell at the first as it'd been nice to have a lead and made a proper race of it but he went and did it again anyway.
He continued: "The loose horses had my heart in my mouth a few times.
"They crossed over me, but Envoi Allen is so honest he never took his eye off the fence.
"He's unbelievable, and a very clever horse."
Trainer Gordon Elliot agreed that the fact the expected duel between the two did not materialise was a source of regret.
"It's a bit of an anti-climax when the other horse went at the first. Jack said he went around in second gear, with his ears pricked.
"He didn't mind the ground, and he didn't do anything wrong. I think he'd be better with a lead because he's idle, but he had to do his own donkey work."
The feature - the Grade Two Sky Bet Moscow Flyer Novice Hurdle - went the way of Dreal Deal.
Denis O'Regan guided the winner home for trainer Ronan McNally.
Download the brand new OffTheBall App in the Play Store & App Store right now! We've got you covered!
Subscribe to OffTheBall's YouTube channel for more videos, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter for the latest sporting news and content.
