Punchestown

Had he stood up and finished third at Cork, SOIR DE GARDE would, undoubtedly, have been given a higher mark and he looks very interesting here if staying this longer trip. Townend prefers him to the the more exposed and battle-hardened Bunting, who rates a major threat, along with Riskaway, the pair dropping in grade after Cheltenham beatings. The 4yo Quinta Do Lago is respected too, from a yard with a good recent record in this race. [Alan Hewison]