Briareus Cut For Festival Glory

Briareus created some minor ripples in the Irish Independent Arkle Trophy betting after staying on strongly to land the Grade Two Scanmoor Noel Novices' Chase at Ascot.

Last season's Champion Hurdle sixth was having just his second start over fences following his close second to Killaghy Castle three weeks ago and got off the mark with a three-length defeat of Knight Legend.

Mark Bradburne employed positive tactics on the 7-2 shot and his front-running ride saw him turn for home with an advantage that never looked like being eroded.

The runner-up had to scrap for his place and only held Royal Shakespeare by a short head, with 8-13 favourite Natal proving a disappointment and finishing just fourth of the five runners.

Coral and William Hill cut the winner to 16-1 for the Cheltenham race, while Stan James and Blue Square are slightly shorter at 14s and Cashmans offer just 12-1.

Balding said: 'Mark rode him really well and he got the trip (two miles and three furlongs) really well, which opens up more options for him.

'I think he is better in smaller fields when he can see daylight, but he is still an exciting prospect.

'There are no grand plans and we will take it race by race, but the Arkle would be the obvious target and I imagine he will have one run beforehand.'

(C) PA Sport