16:40 Aintree

I’m keen to stick with Cheltenham winner UNEXPECTED PARTY for Dan and Harry Skelton. This horse was clearly well handicapped heading into the Festival and he showed a really good attitude to fend off the improving Libberty Hunter in the closing stages. He has gone up 8lb as a result but I can see this track suiting and I still think he might have a bit of wiggle room off this mark. I think as long as he is within shouting distance at the last then he will have a great chance of winning. Saint Roi was beaten 17 lengths by the selection at Cheltenham but ran a cracker beaten a length and a half behind Banbridge at this track last year so has to be respected. Path D’oroux was third in the Grand Annual so might pose a greater threat.

Unexpected Party - 1pt @ 6/1