Friends First Cross Country Chase For The La Touche Cup

Given a new lease of life in cross-country competition since joining Enda Bolger from Paul Webber, winning here and at Cheltenham late last year. Has run up to his best when placed at latter track in January and March, and sets a formidable standard for the others to aim at.

Better than ever when winning 3m banks race at this meeting last year, and similar form when fourth to Cantlow here in November, conceding weight to the winner. Solid place claims on that evidence, although stamina seemed to run out when tried over 3m6f at Cheltenham in 2015.

Both wins have come in the mud, most recently at Naas (3m) in February 2016. Has struggled with and without a tongue tie this season, however, and looks to face a very stiff task, even if refinding his form.

Winner at Chepstow (19f) a year ago for Paul Nicholls, but seems to have lost his way, and no sign of a revival on sole start for Mark McNiff at Aintree earlier in the month. In good hands for switch to new discipline, but may need time to adjust.

Useful staying chaser at his peak, but soundly beaten on both starts for Mark Pitman this season on the back of an absence, and didn't offer a great deal on return to former trainer at Naas (hurdles) in February. Still needs a market check.

Top-class stayer in his prime, but been on the downgrade for some time, and made no impact in Irish National at Fairyhouse recently, having fallen foul of cheese wedges in Cheltenham's cross-country event the previous month. In calmer waters now, and place claims if handling quick turnaround.

Has a good record on banks course here, winning Risk of Thunder Chase (3m) in 2013 and 2014. Below best when fifth here in February, and ran out when fancied for Ulster National at Downpatrick last time. Can bounce back, for all that effort raises temperament questions.

Point winner who showed improved form when chasing home Enniskillen in opening race of this fixture, but that contest is traditionally much weaker than this, and he needs to pull out another lifetime best to get involved.