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The fourth race on Grand National day will be the high-class JRL Group Liverpool Hurdle. Last year’s winner Sire Du Berlais returns to defend his crown, but can he fight off a host of decent horses?
Sire a serious contender or likely to disappoint?
Contents
The obvious starting point with this race is last year’s winner Sire Du Berlais, who is back for another crack.
After his victory over Flooring Porter in this race 12 months ago, the gelding lost his way somewhat, failing to get involved on numerous occasions after being sent off at big odds, though he bounced back in timely fashion at the Cheltenham Festival, winning the Paddy Power at 33/1. That form must be taken seriously.
However, he’s now an 11-year-old and he’s no stranger to going in and out of form, so while he must be taken seriously, there’s no guarantee that he’ll follow up.
A whole host of contenders
The form of every runner in this race can be picked at, while lots come here looking to bounce back after poor efforts last time out, which makes it such an interesting and anything-but-easy puzzle to solve.
Marie’s Rock is far from unfancied in the early betting but she was very disappointing at Cheltenham, while Champ would have a chance on some of his previous form. He does have one win and a place to his name at Aintree after all.
Brewinupastorm didn’t go to Cheltenham, but warmed up nicely with a two-and-a-half mile success at Fontwell last time out, where he beat some decent horses. If he takes to this extra distance under Aidan Coleman, then Olly Murphy’s runner could cause a surprise at big odds.
The best option might just be Home By The Lee, who was looking like a top stayer prior to Cheltenham and deserves another chance, especially as he’s one of the younger horses in the race.
Best Bet: Home By The Lee @ 9/2
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