Samcro edged out Melon — and Faugheen — in a thrilling race for the Marsh Novices’ Chase at Cheltenham.

The 2018 Ballymore Novices’ Hurdle winner has had a chequered career since that Festival highlight — but returned to his best in a finish that had just about everything.

The pair battled it out up the famous hill and it could have gone either way, but in the end it was the Gordon Elliott-trained Samcro (4-1) who snatched the verdict on the line under Davy Russell.

Faugheen — with the packed stands willing him on — was right behind the first two in third spot, with Mister Fisher fourth.

Sent off the 3-1 favourite, Faugheen was away smartly, but Reserve Tank and Poker Play made the early running before Melon joined the leaders before the fifth fence.

There was early drama when Itchy Feet blundered and unseated Gavin Sheehan at the sixth fence.

Samcro travelled well and there was all to play for until Faugheen made a mistake three out that cost him ground at a crucial time.

It left Samcro and Melon ahead of the pack with the former, wearing the Gigginstown House Stud colours, prevailing by a nose, as Faugheen rallied to be just another length behind.