Townend and Andalusa cruise around Listowel

Willie Mullins' Andalusa enjoyed a facile victory in the Cheestrings Rated Novice Chase at Listowel.

Paul Townend 's mount raced second before assuming the lead after fence two.

She moved clear with a circuit to race and a flying jump six out had her well in charge.

KnockOn Steel and the favourite Anything Will Do tried to pick up the chase in a remote second and third respectively, but they were toiling after four out.

Andalusa made the best way home as Anything Will Do moved into a distant second at the penultimate fence.

The winner never came off the bridle as she tanked home by 16 lengths at 9/4 from 11/10 favourite Anything Will Do.

Paul Townend said: "It is a while since I've had as much fun on horseback!

"She just jumps so well and chasing has brought about a lot of improvement in her. Up to now her jumping has been excellent and she hopped off the ground.

"Her hurdle form wasn't a patch on her chase form and she is a typical mare in that when they win they get confidence; if she can keep improving it would be brilliant."

Additional reporting by Tom Weekes