I have no doubt NICKLE BACK is still progressing over fences. He won his first two starts impressively before bumping into Hermes Allen at Newbury last time. He stayed on well once headed and was clear from the third with the field well strung out. His aggressive tactics should see him back in the winners enclosure here as I don't think there is anything good enough to live with him. Master Chewy is consistent but usually finds one too good.

The step up in trip didn't really work for GOOD RISK AT ALL at Cheltenham last time and he looks a strong play back down to 2 and a half miles. He was very impressive at Carlisle and I'm expecting a similar performance here despite suffering defeat last time. He clearly has a big engine and is worth keeping on side. First Flow is obviously very talented but is an 11yo now and this looks a tough ask off a big weight. Might leave War Lord as the main danger.