Ruby Walsh guided Taranis to victory at Down Royal

With The Listener falling at the third fence, the 10/11 favourite led for most of the race although Justified drew level approaching the final fence.

However, Ruby Walsh's mount pulled clear on the long run-in to ensure victory for Paul Nicholls' horse.

Taranis had five lengths to spare from the 11/4 shot with Light On The Broom finishing a distant third.

The Listener made a mistake at the second fence and was out of the race after making a blunder at the next.

Taranis then took over the lead from Strong Flow and bowled along contentedly, putting in a solid round of jumping.

Paul Carberry brought Justified into contention three out and at the next obstacle Taranis almost missed the fence.

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However, Walsh managed to retain control and get the six-year-old back on an even keel.

Justified could find no more and Taranis went on to win cosily and further strengthen the hand of Nicholls, who is also responsible for star chasers Kauto Star and Denman.

Nicholls is expected to target his horse for the King George VI Chase at Kempton on Boxing Day.

Jockey Walsh acknowledged that he had not planned to take the lead so early in the race.

"It was never the plan to do it the hard way and it isn't the right way to ride the horse," said Walsh.

"We jumped off with Strong Flow going so steady and The Listener content to sit in. I wanted a true-run race so I had to go about it myself when The Listener unseated Daryl.

"I guess we always thought he would stay, but now we know he does."

James Nicholson Wine Merchat Chase (Down Royal)
1. Taranis (R Walsh) 10-11 Fav
2. Justified 11-4
3. Light On The Broom 50-1
4. Strong Flow 20-1
6 ran