Ibis Du Rheu battled on bravely to outpoint Flying Angel in a close finish to the Martin Pipe Conditional Jockeys' Handicap Hurdle at Cheltenham.

Qaspal ended Philip Hobbs' Paddy Power Imperial Cup drought today and put himself in the reckoning for a £75,000 (€82,829) bonus if following up at the Cheltenham Festival when leading home a stable one-two at Sandown.

Henry de Bromhead was back in the winner's circle at Cheltenham for the first time since Sizing Europe's Greatwood Hurdle win two years ago as Loosen My Load struck in the Sharp Novices' Hurdle.

Henry Daly was thrilled with World Hurdle aspirant Mighty Man following a pleasing workout after racing at Bangor on Wednesday.