BEST OF THE REST (SATURDAY)

Rory Paddock looks away from Aintree and pinpoints a handful of runners worth following this Saturday. 13:30 NEWCASTLE

Hawkseye View was unable to land a blow in stronger company last time, but this represents a marked drop in grade and he returns to a venue where he has an excellent record. With proven course-and-distance form, he looks well placed to bounce back and add to his tally.

Empty Nest, another previous winner over this track and trip, appeals as the most obvious danger if reproducing his best form.

HAWKSEYE VIEW (WIN)

15:12 YARMOUTH

Ottoman Empress made a winning start over course and distance, though the strength of that form remains open to question. However, she represents a yard that traditionally does well at this venue, and with that local edge, she looks the one to beat if progressing further.

This is not without depth, however. The unbeaten Bint Kilfrush commands respect, while Karl Burke’s Harper Violet and the Crisford-trained Harriet Quimby both bring solid profiles into the race and should ensure a competitive finish.

OTTOMAN EMPRESS (WIN)

16:32 NEWCASTLE

Port Station remains a maiden but has been knocking firmly on the door in recent starts, shaping as though a breakthrough success is imminent. A repeat of his latest effort may well suffice in a race of this nature.

Lost Frequencies and Diamond Koda both arrive with consistent profiles and look set to be involved at the business end.

PORT STATION (WIN)

17:15 SOUTHWELL

Tortured Soul arrives in good heart having gone close on his last two starts and now returns to a track where he has previously tasted success. Racing just 1lb above his last winning mark, and with Rossa Ryan booked, conditions look ideal for a bold showing.

Everyoneknowsadave, a fellow course-and-distance scorer, is feared most, while the reliable Pleasant Man should once again give a good account.

TORTURED SOUL (WIN)

17:40 YARMOUTH

Pixie Diva impressed with a decisive victory last time and looks capable of following up in what appears a modest contest. The booking of Oisin Murphy catches the eye and further strengthens her claims.

Almaty Star has been knocking on the door and rates the main threat, with the pair likely to dominate proceedings.

PIXIE DIVA (WIN)

18:30 BELLEWSTOWN

Cuban Grey shaped well when runner-up on his sole previous visit to Bellewstown and returns with a similar profile. Although slightly higher in the weights, this looks an open contest and he has the credentials to go well once again.

Amiata, from the Ger Lyons stable, ran with credit when fifth just a week ago and could build on that effort to get closer here.

CUBAN GREY (E/W)

19:15 SOUTHWELL

Turbo Command and Autumn Angel have both hinted at a return to form in recent outings and, in a race lacking standout contenders, it may pay to side with both. With improvement likely, they are taken to hit the frame.

Captain Pickles seeks a hat-trick and commands respect, while course winner I Can Boogy has the ability to get involved if things fall right.

TURBO COMMAND & AUTUMN ANGEL (BOTH TO FINISH TOP 3 OR BOTH TO FINISH TOP 4)

BOTH TOP 4 - 9/2

BOTH TOP 3 - 9.4/1

written by Rory Paddock

READ OUR PREVIEWS FOR ALL THE RACES AT AINTREE, INCLUDING THE GRAND NATIONAL THIS SATURDAY