Bishopsfurze s jumping left something to be desired once again but class told as he ran out a cosy winner of the Surehaul Mercedes Benz Novice Hurdle at Clonmel.
Paul Townend sent his mount to the front four from home in the 2m6f event and he looked in total control turning in as stable-mate Skorcher came under pressure.
The 9/10 favourite got it all wrong at the penultimate flight, however, and was lucky to stay on his feet.
Townend didn't panic and let his mount his recover his composure. He approached the last travelling well again but flattened the hurdle and had to be shaken up on the run-in.
Despite the mistakes his victory never looked in doubt as he always held too many guns for Willie Mullins' second string.
The dual bumper winner was recording his third success over jumps but hasn't looked the most natural over hurdles.
"I thought he was gone at the second last and he was lucky to stand up," said a relieved Mullins afterwards.
"Paul said he was idling in front. He said he travelled so well he had to go to the front.
"He showed today that he has a real engine. I was also delighted with the other horse and we'll go for something similar with him."
