Midnight outbattles Joxer in exciting finish

Having saddle the runner-up Marasonnien in the opener Willie Mullins managed to go one place better in the second race on the card as his Midnight Game took the United Arab Emirates Embassy Maiden Hurdle.

The French import looked set for a comfortable win as they approached the last but the leader Joxer didn't go down without a fight and was beaten by only half a length at the line.

The winner was returned the 11/10 favourite under Davy Russell in the colours of Gigginstown House Stud.

16/1 shot Silver Shuffle ran a nice race to finish third a further four and a quarter lengths back with Paul Carberry in the saddle.

Willie Mullins said afterwards: "The drier ground was a big help to him today. I hope he improves from today."

Midnight Game was acquired for €185,000 at the Arqana Sale at Saint-Cloud, having been runner-up twice in Listed company on the Flat in France for Jean-Claude Rouget.

He is a half-brother to six times winning jumper West With The Wind.