Geraghty said: "He battled well. I had to work a little bit before the turn in, but when we straightened up he came alive.
"He was good and accurate at the last. He's learning a lot from last year and physically, he's a good bit stronger.
"It was a good, solid race. The New One and My Tent went a good gallop and there was no place to hide.
"It looks like he's a Champion Hurdle horse. You'd imagine Cheltenham being a stiffer track would suit better.
"He did it well today."
King said: "I'm relieved. I thought today was a bit against us. Kempton is a sharp track and we didn't get the rain I was hoping for in the week. I'm delighted. I thought we were vulnerable today.
"Ascot probably stood him in good stead. He had to battle that day and it helped him.
"My horses were a bit short then and he needed it. He needed a bit of match practice. It was all very well winning last season without coming off the bridle, but horses have to learn. He learnt a lot at Ascot and again today."
He went on: "Barry was right behind the first two so he was in the right place. He's dug in and the further they went the better.
"We weren't sure (about best trip) which is why we stuck him in over two and a half at Ascot. We were going to go up but Unowhatimeanharry came on the scene, so we changed our plan. It's worked very well.
"But for Unowhatimeanharry we were in the Long Walk two weeks ago. It's a big step in the right direction.
"I wouldn't mind if we went straight to Cheltenham. I'll speak to JP (McManus, owner) and Frank (Berry (racing manager). I wouldn't mind that.
"He doesn't take a lot of work. He might have one more race for match practice, I don't know. I'll speak to the team, but I'd be relaxed if we went straight to Cheltenham."
