One all at Punchestown but gap closed slightly

One apiece again today for Gordon Elliott and Willie Mullins at Punchestown but it has to be acknowledged that the champion trainer got the upper hand with Limini beating Apple's Jade in the big race at the Kildare track.

Limini upset former stable companion and 2/5 shot Apple's Jade, to land the Listed Quevega Mares Hurdle at Punchestown.

'There are no excuses and she was beaten by a better horse on the day, the plan is still the mares' hurdle at Cheltenham,' commented Gordon Elliott in a post-race interview.

The Summerhill bounced back when winning a maiden hurdle with Mossback with Bryan Cooper on board ahead of the Barry Geraghty-partnered Castello Sforza trained by Willie Mullins.

In terms or prizemoney today (win and place) Willie Mullins closed the gap by €4,000 as he added €22787 to his tally with Gordon Elliott adding €16,624 - Gordon Elliott still leads by approx €265,000.