Now the final decs are up I've gone through the field:
Tidal Bay - quite simply, too much weight. He is no Denman.
Roberto Goldback - has been absolutely hammered by the handicapper and even Jeremy McGrath's 5lbs won't make him competitive here.
Bobs Worth - I agree with his trainer, he doesn't look particularly well handicapped and surely this isn't his primary target this season?
First Lieutentant - not quite up to this off 159
--------- 11lbs gap in the handicap

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Hold On Julio - stable knocking in the winners and if he handles the ground and doesn't hit too many, a major player
Lion Na Bearnai - the Irish National winner could give you a cracking run for your money at outrageous odds
Carruthers - the reigning champ and there wouldn't be a dry eye in the place if he could emulate Arkle and retain the crown. Only 1 lb higher than last year.
The Package - will have been aimed at this by his shrewd handler and his seasonal reappearance was very convincing. Big chance.
Teaforthree - not convinced he can yet put it all together to win a race of this calibre
Fruity O'Rooney - game as the day is long but for me not on this going
Saint Are - yard in great form and still unexposed - a bit of a dark horse who makes e/w appeal
Duke Of Lucca - progressive sort who has a nice pull with Roberto Goldback and I think he will be will suited by the race - definite chance
Diamond Harry - looked to have fallen out of love with the game last time out and surely can't get involved at the business end?
Magnanimity - looks too high in the weights based on all known form
Harry The Viking - with the exception of Denman this hasn't been a happy race for Paul Nicholls and I don't think Harry will change that
Ikorodu Road - C&D winner in March off 134, goes off 141 here but does like the track
Frisco Depot - muppet on board
Soll - Willie Mullins offcast who could surprise a few here
Alfie Spinner - consistent sort but not a habitual winner
Prediction:
1. Duke Of Lucca
2. The Package
3. Saint Are
4. Bobs Worth