Yorkshireman Matt and Irish challenger Michael shared the top prize after they both jumped 2.20 metres (7ft 3in) to clear the famous red wall in a class sponsored by Equitop GLME.
And for Matt, it was a remarkable result, given that he only knew about his ride – Top Dollar VI – barely 30 minutes before the start after its regular rider Laura Renwick rang and offered him the ride.
Eleven combinations began the class – it could run for a maximum of five rounds – but the final drama was enacted by Matt and Michael, with his 2018 Dublin Horse Show Puissance title winner Hearton du Bois Halleux.
And they both delivered the goods, sending a capacity crowd wild at the Echo Arena and bringing an end to day three of the show that no-one could have scripted.