Petit Mouchoir team aiming to capitalise on Footpad's absence

Doom Bar Maghull Novices' Chase (Grade 1) | 5yo+ | 2m | ITV/RUK

The race has not produced the Racing Post Arkle rematch everyone hoped for and with neither Footpad nor Brain Power in the field it has left Petit Mouchoir with a seemingly straightforward opportunity.

Petit Mouchoir helped set the furious pace for which he ultimately paid when crossing the line in third place, 15 lengths adrift of his old foe, but the form still ranks him 9lb better than the next highest rated horse in the field.

Trainer Henry de Bromhead said: "He came out of Cheltenham well and seems in very good form. We had a choice of targets here this week but opted to keep him to two miles. We're looking forward to a good run."

Shantou Rock has his first start in Grade 1 company, having finished second three times since getting off the mark over fences at Newton Abbot, his last two runs in Grade 2 company.

Shantou Rock: will be aiming to spoil the party for Dan and Harry SkeltonCredit: Harry Trump (Getty Images)

Trainer Dan Skelton said: "I wish it hadn’t rained as he’s better on better ground. It’s a Grade 1, and we’ve got to take our chance. Petit Mouchoir is very much the likeliest winner judged on ratings."

Paul Nicholls won the race 12 months ago when San Benedeto took advantage of the last fence exit of stablemate Politologue, who stumbled on landing and fell.

His latest challenger Diego Du Charmil was victim of a similar mishap last time when coming down after stumbling three out at Ascot when looking on course for victory.

Nicholls said: "He would have won at Ascot last time. He has been waiting all winter for some better ground but it's not going to be in his favour.

"It was soft at Ascot and he didn't run too bad at Warwick on soft ground but he is a much better horse on better ground. He is not without a chance if he can cope with it."

At least there will no complaints about the ground for the mare Lady Buttons who loves soft ground, is unbeaten in two starts over fences and will be in receipt of 7lb.

Trainer Philip Kirby said: "This has always been the plan and she is in really good order. It may be a stiff task taking on Petit Mouchoir but with the filly's weight allowance and in the ground conditions she may have a better chance.

"She goes on any ground, just not fast. We couldn't be happier with her and are really looking forward to it."

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