They couldn't split them in the betting, the pair both going off as 10/11 chances, but Aminabad fairly asserted his superiority out on the track to slam Vercingetorix in the Monroes Live Hurdle by twelve lengths at Ballinrobe.

Ruby Walsh made all in the Gigginstown House Stud-owned Aminabad, tracked for much by 33/1 outsider of the three Survival

Barry Geraghty had to work to get Vercingetorix to challenge from two out, but it was soon apparent that there was only going to be one outcome as Willie Mullins' Aminabad kept on strongly to assert in the straight.

"He did it well. He is in the Galway Hurdle next week and I'd imagine he'll be lining-up," disclosed Walsh.

"He was slick today and he was very slick the day he won his maiden at Wexford. I don't know what went amiss in the middle. Fitness wise the run will help him."

(DM & EM)