Paul Nicholls: Two good chances at Stratford with slower ground set to suit

• Just two runners for Paul on Saturday as he gears up to Aintree

• Beau Balko will enjoy the ground and has decent chance

• Slower ground will also souit Banteer in the bumper

Decent chance on ground that he enjoys

14:17 - Beau Balko

He's progressive and has done well this season, winning twice and the form of his last victory in a handicap has since been boosted. He escapes a penalty as that was in a race for conditional jockeys and Angus Cheleda takes off a handy 5lbs.

Beau Balko needs to finish in the first four in this race to qualify for a £100,000 novice handicap hurdle final on the last day of the season at Sandown. He must have a decent chance on soft ground he enjoys.

Has ability and will run well

17:12 - Banteer

He made an encouraging debut in a bumper at Exeter in February, staying on strongly all the way to the line when finishing second to a useful type. The experience will not be lost on Banteer who is really a three miler for the future and will keep galloping all day.

Slower ground at Stratford will suit Banteer who has a nice bit of ability and will run well.

Best Chance: Beau Balko - 14.17.

"He continues to please and has solid claims back in novice company."