Cork ReportCentral House claimed the scalp of Rathgar Beau with a bold front-running display in the Grade Two O'Connell Warehousing Hilly Way Chase at Cork yesterday.

Dessie Hughes' eight-year-old (6 to 4 second favourite) was sent to the front as soon as the tapes went up and he remained at the head of affairs throughout the two-mile race, despite being joined by Mariah Rollins three out.

Rathgar Beau, the 9 to 10 favourite, stayed on but although he jumped the last well, he could not peg back Central House, who was going away towards the line for a three-length success over the market leader.

Hughes said: "His form has worked out with Hi Cloy winning at Punchestown. He's a better horse this year and he jumped marvellously as usual.

"He'll go to Leopardstown at Christmas now and that's far enough ahead to be thinking at this stage."

The trainer also had news of his dual Champion Hurdle hero Hardy Eustace. "We'll see what he does in his next few pieces of work before deciding whether to go to Leopardstown at Christmas," he added.

Central House was trimmed to 14 to 1 from 25s by Coral for the Champion Chase, with Cashmans going 20 to 1 from 33s.

Rathgar Beau is now 14 to 1 from 9 to 1, while Cashmans go 12 to 1.

Michael Hourigan reported Beef Or Salmon on target for the Lexus Chase at Leopardstown on December 28th. "He is in very good form. I had him checked out thoroughly the other day and everyone was happy with him," said Hourigan yesterday.