Nicholl's ace out for redemption

Thisthatandtother will bid to restore his reputation in the Martell Cognac Maghull Novices’ Chase at Aintree tomorrow.

The Paul Nicholls-trained eight-year-old was sent off the 5-2 favourite for the Irish Independent Arkle Challenge Trophy at the Cheltenham Festival but blundered at the first fence and then fell at the next.

Thisthatandtother had previously jumped soundly to win four of his five starts over fences and has reportedly schooled well since his mishap.

Nicholls also runs Venn Ottery, who performed with great credit when fifth behind Azertyuiop in the Queen Mother Champion Chase.

He did not race with his customary tongue strap that day but will have one fitted tomorrow.

But the Nicholls-trained duo will face stiff opposition in the Grade One contest in the shape of Arkle winner Well Chief, who is a five-year-old and gets a valuable 3lb from his rivals.

Mister Goldrick, who also failed to complete in the Arkle, runs for Bingley trainer Sue Smith, while other interesting contenders are Irish raider Emperors Guest and the Philip Hobbs-trained Kalca Mome.