Oddschecker punters believe there could be a change of direction for Monalee at the Festival.
News that Willoughby Court has been ruled out of the JLT Novices Chase has seen some predictable market movement, but surprisingly punters are supporting Monalee for the race despite the common acceptance that he is set to run in the RSA Chase.
The Henry De Bromhead 7 year-old is as short as 11/4 for the RSA Chase, but still retains an entry for the JLT. He was 10/1 this morning for the latter but has accounted 26% of bets since the news broke, which has seen his odds cut accordingly.
He is still available at 9/1, but is best priced 5/1 with the firms who are ‘non-runner no bet’, a price which would surely disappear should it be confirmed that he was being rerouted.
In Monalee’s last run he defeated current JLT favourite Invitation Only, so would likely be sent off favourite if he does line up on the Thursday rather than the Wednesday at Prestbury Park.
Oddschecker spokesperson George Elek said: “The JLT looks a far easier Cheltenham scalp that the RSA this year, and it would make some sense for Monalee connections to look to swerve Presenting Percy in the RSA.
“Those on at a double figure price will have found some terrific ante-post value if they do go down that route.”
