Definitly Red each-way value in National Hunt Chase

Another plus is that connections have secured the services of Sam Waley-Cohen to do the steering, as he has tasted success at the Festival and is one of the top amateurs in the game.

Minella Rocco feared most

Trainer Jonjo O’Neill has won the race a record five-times, and Minella Rocco looks to have been laid out to try and provide the master of Jackdaws Castle with another success.

The six-year-old looked a very exciting prospect when winning both his starts over hurdles last year in facile fashion, but failed to shine in his first three starts over fences this season.

However, there was much more to like about his run last time out when an eye-catching staying on second to Vyta Du Roc, in a Grade 2 contest over 3m at Ascot.

If building on that, the gelding looks a massive player, and the step up in trip should suit given how Minella Rocco finished off the race.

Then the booking of crack Irish amateur Derek O’Connor to do the steering is another big plus and suggests that connections mean business.

Pont Alexandre the pick of Mullins trio

Ponte Alexandre has always been held in high regard and looks the pick of a trio of runners representing leading Irish trainer Willie Mullins, and fellow Irish raider Noble Endeavour is also in with a shout on the pick of his form.

Another to consider is the Colin Tizzard trained Native River. The six-year-old, who has won twice and finished in the frame three times in five starts over fences, is a really tough sort who has a very likeable attitude and should relish this stamina test.

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Coral’s top tip: Definitly Red boasts some strong form and looks cracking each-way value. Minella Rocco is unexposed and has to be a big player given O’Neill’s record in the race.