GYTO Saturday Notebook Double

Unbeaten over fences MINELLA PLUS looks well placed to bring up the hat-trick at Wetherby on Saturday. He took well to this discipline to win by 8 lengths at Hexham and then backed that up to score by 4 lengths at Ludlow last month. This is definitely tougher but he gives the impression there is more in the locker if called upon and I think he can win again here. Zacony Rebel impressed to make a winning start over fences at Fontwell and looks the danger but I’m not sure what he beat that day. Moriko De Vassy failed to get competitive in a Grade 2 over hurdles when last seen but should have a future in this sphere so is also noted. He has won fresh so don’t rule out a big run. Notlongtillmay and Nero Rock need to step up to get involved here.

I’m looking forward to seeing STRONG LEADER jump hurdles at Uttoxeter on Saturday. This son of Passing Glance was a really impressive winner of a bumper at Warwick on debut. He was beaten at Cheltenham last month but was given a lot to do that day and kept on well in the closing stages to finish runner-up by 4 lengths. He should strip fitter from that run and has a bright future now jumping hurdles. This looks winnable so I expect him to be a warm order. Idealdes Villerets showed promise on debut when third in a bumper at Doncaster and was just too keen when fourth at Cheltenham. If he settles better on hurdles debut he could emerge as the danger. Parc D’amour showed a good attitude to win on debut in a bumper at Doncaster and is another one to note.