Grand National meeting Day Two part one

Big Buck’s followed up on a Cheltenham Festival victory yesterday and Finian’s Rainbow will be hoping for a similar achievement.

14:00 – Darlan @ 11/10

Darlan ran more than creditably behind Cinders and Ashes at the Festival in the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle and will be far more at home on a flatter track like Aintree.

Spirit Song followed up on second in the Supreme last season before winning this race.

Fellow Nicky Henderson runner Oscara Dara could be one to watch at an each-way price after scooting up on his hurdles debut against weaker opposition, while Theatre Guide should not be allowed to slip under the radar.

14:30 – Silviniaco Conti @ 13/8

Champion Court will be well fancied after chasing home Sir Des Champs, but this contest over 3m1f will stretch his stamina.

This should leave the race between the two Paul Nicholls runners Silviniaco Conti and Join Together and any late rain will favour the latter.

Silviniaco Conti can be frustrating, but did finish between Grands Crus and Bobs Worth over Christmas and this is noteworthy form.

15:05 – Albertas Run @ 5/2

There has to be doubts as to why Finian’s Rainbow has been kept over 2m over fences so far and he therefore may be worth opposing at a short price over this longer trip.

Albertas Run is definitely one who will have no issues with the 2m4f and looks the safest option given his win in this race in 2010 and second last year.

Poquelin can be opposed because of a poor Aintree record, despite chasing home The Giant Bolster when giving him weight on his latest start in January.

So Kauto Stone looks the most interesting each-way despite a couple of disappointing performances of late and will be especially dangerous if any late rain falls at Aintree.