Today’s bets:

JERED (Aintree 2.05) - 1 point win
10/1 available at Sporingbet
FIVEFORTHREE (Aintree 2.50) - 1 point win
9/1 available at Sporingbet 2nd 7/1 ;D

Jered was probably finishing better than most in the Champion Hurdle but he was doing it from a mile back. That was his first run for four months and only his third race of the season so he comes here fresher than most. Never gave the impression of being the fastest horse so this step up to 20 furlongs could suit (plenty of stamina in his breeding). Versatile regarding ground conditions and has won two of his three races when partnered by Tony McCoy. Fiveforthree was the winner of the Ballymore Novices at last season's Festival and returned from an eleven month absence looking better than ever at Wexford last month. He looks likely to step up on that effort now he goes back up in trip but he will need to because this represents a significant step up in class. Effective on good ground he has been deserted by Ruby Walsh but has a very capable replacement.

MALJIMAR (Aintree 3.25) - 2 point win
7/1 generally available

Travelled impressively through the William Hill Trophy at the Festival and looked the likeliest winner over the last, only to be foiled by the enigmatic Wichita Lineman on the line. That was his first attempt beyond 21 furlongs and it would be unfair to say he didn't stay. This race will place less of an emphasis on stamina anyway and it offers a decent opportunity for compensation. Held an entry in the National so his connections obviously have no qualms concerning his stamina and races here from just a four pound higher mark than at Cheltenham. Has only had the two outings this season and handles any ground.

TARSUS (Chepstow 2.50) - 2 point win
7/1 generally available 1st 4/1 7/1 easily available earlier

ISSAQUAH (Aintree 5.00) - 1 point E/W
16/1 generally available 3rd 16/1

Latest form figures don't inspire but two of the three outings came in Grade Two races and the other was in heavy ground over 20 furlongs. Now reverts back to the kind of trip over which she was progressing at the beginning of the season. Ten pounds higher in the handicap than for her last win but that was gained with the minimum of fuss and she wasn't far below that level of form in the first of her two Graded races. Travels well, handles fast ground and looks likely to get competitive back in handicap company under suitable conditions.