Racing:Cheltenham Gold Cup winner War Of Attrition coasted to a comfortable success on his reappearance in the Star "Best For Racing" Chase at Punchestown.
Conor O'Dwyer never had any cause for concern aboard the Mouse Morris-trained seven-year-old and connections will be hoping that all roads will once more lead to Prestbury Park.
Paul Carberry briefly looked threatening on Watson Lake turning into the straight, but O'Dwyer allowed his mount an inch of rein and coasted clear for an 11-length success.
Public Reaction made sure there was no hanging about in the two-mile-six-furlong contest, setting a generous gallop up front with Strong Project in pursuit.
However, O'Dwyer and Carberry on the two principals were content to sit some way off the pace.
Despite some slightly sticky jumping down the back straight, War Of Attrition moved effortlessly up to challenge half a mile out and a huge leap at the second-last took him into a clear advantage.
Watson Lake travelled with his customary zest but his stamina waned and the Gold Cup winner was able to come home in splendid isolation.
VC Bet were suitably impressed and cut him to 5-2 from 4-1 favourite for a repeat success at Cheltenham next March. PaddyPower make him 7-2 from 4-1, while Bet365 cut him half a point to 4-1 from 9-2.