Race of the Day / Timeform / 11 April 2012 /

Timeform take a look at a high-quality field for the Grade 1 Aintree Bowl on Thursday...

Burton Port improved since returning from a long absence, chasing home Long Run at Newbury prior to good fourth in Gold Cup. Proven round this circuit and likely to be in the firing line once more.

Carruthers chased home What A Friend in this race 2 years ago and took advantage of a reduced mark when landing the Hennessy, but subsequent efforts less inspiring and tried in blinkers now.

Diamond Harry bolted up in last season's Hennessy at Newbury, but has hit the skids this term, failing to see things out first 2 comeback starts and ran a shocker in the Gold Cup last month.

Follow The Plan was a fortunate winner of the Guinness Gold Cup at Punchestown last season. Run well to make frame in a couple of graded races since, and cheekpieces need to bring about massive improvement.

Hunt Ball has made staggering progress over fences this season, storming clear for seventh success in a 2½m Cheltenham handicap last month. Longer trip may suit and well worth a shot in this higher grade.

Master of The Hall's chase wins have all come in small-field conditions events, looking better than ever when winning Premier Chase at Kelso last month, but yet to show he can cut the mustard against the best.

Medermit made up into a top-class chaser this term, running as well as he ever has when third to Riverside Theatre in Ryanair last time. Major player again if stamina holds out on first try at 25f.

Nacarat won this last season and as good as ever when landing Racing Plus Chase at Kempton in February. Vulnerable against the very best, but capable of another bold show.

Riverside Theatre proved himself one of the best chasers around since returning from an absence this spring, following up Ascot win with a game success in Ryanair last month. The one to beat again.

Roberto Goldback produced a solid effort in blinkers when chasing home Quel Esprit in Irish Hennessy in February, but well beaten in a handicap last time and visor reached for now.

What A Friend has not won since landing this contest in 2010. Things not gone to plan this season, falling at the second in Gold Cup last time and bit to prove on balance, not least resolution for the job these days.

Timeform 1-2-3:
1. Medermit
2. Riverside Theatre
3. Burton Port

Timeform View: Burton Port represents the Gold Cup form and ought to go well, but the principals from the Ryanair could take centre stage. Riverside Theatre commands respect in his bid to complete the double, but Medermit promises to stay this longer trip and could prove each-way value.

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Timeform's Horses to Follow Extra Aintree issue is out now and features no less than eight big-race previews, our selection for the Grand National and more.

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