Dazzling Douvan in total control

While Vautour failed to read the script when crashing out on his first visit to Aintree, there were no such problems for Douvan as he stamped his authority over his rivals in the manner only he know how with a decisive success in the Doom Bar Maghull Novices’ Chase.

Those expecting to witness another masterclass from the exciting six-year-old were not to be disappointed, as he once again left his rivals toiling to make it a perfect five out of five over fences and give trainer Willie Mullins his first taste of success in the Grade One contest.

After treating racegoers to an exhibition round of jumping when winning last month’s Arkle Trophy, the six-year-old took time to warm to the task on this occasion after failing to inspire over the first three fences in his pursuit of early leader Alisier D’Irlande.