Willie Mullins bagged a quick double at Punchestown today when Funiculi Funicula landed the QuinnBet Novice Handicap Chase.

Paul Townend sent the Storm The Stars gelding to the front after the third last fence in the two-and-a-half mile contest.

He made a slight blunder over the penultimate fence but the 7/2 shot stuck on gamely in the closing stages to post a three-length success over Norn Iron

Assistant David Casey said:- “It was a good performance. He’s a horse that we always liked.

“He got beat in his first couple of beginners chases but did well to win in Cork and he was good today. We’re delighted with him.

“He just got a little bit low (two out) but he’s only a novice and his jumping is improving. Paul said he was good with him all the way bar that.

“Hopefully it’s onwards and upwards. He could possibly be a Galway Plate horse and he might get three miles later on when he strengthens up a bit more.

“I think he goes on most ground as well. It was a good pot to get today.”