The money came for Direct Image in the qualified riders' handicap chase at Punchestown and it was rewarded when she got up close home.

A good jump two out saw her close on First Touch and she was ridden by Michael O'Sullivan to get on terms at the last.

The two fought out the spoils on the run-in, but it was Direct Image who finished the stronger over this extended two miles seven trip to score by three parts of a length for in-form Robert Tyner.

The eight-year-old mare went off 5/2 joint favourite from fellow market leader First Touch. Doldido (11/1) was eight and a half lengths further adrift in third. Super Citizen completed the placings in fourth at 14/1.

The trainer's wife Mary said: “She's in good form and they all seem to be well as that's our third winner now from four runners.

“Hopefully things will keep going. While the ground stays good we'll probably stay at it with her, maybe between hurdles and fences, whatever comes up to suit her. The ground is the big thing.

“She likes the better ground as she's only a handy little filly.”

Direct Image was last seen winning over hurdles at Navan in September.

The Stewards interviewed Mr B. Barry, rider of ninth-placed Father Jed concerning his use of the whip in the latter stages of this race. Evidence was heard from the rider concerned. In his evidence Mr B. Barry stated that he had lost count on his use of the whip and apologised for his actions. Having viewed a recording of the race and considered the evidence the Stewards were of the opinion that Mr B. Barry was in breach of R10(3)(g) by using his whip with excessive frequency. Having taken his clean previous record into consideration, the Stewards suspended Mr B. Barry for one raceday.

Additional reporting by Gary Carson