John Durkan Memorial Chase: Timeform runner-by-runner guide

Sir des Champs takes on Flemenstar in the John Durkan

Timeform run the rule over the weekend's other big clash, between Sir des Champs and Flemenstar, due off at 14:00...

Bog Warrior beat Flemenstar on chasing debut but ended last season tailed off behind that rival at Naas. Got back on track with easy win over hurdles last time but has still to prove he's a real top-notcher.

Flemenstar is a bold jumper who has gone from strength to strength since beaten on chasing debut, taking his winning sequence to 6 when defeating Big Zeb in the Fortria. This could be his sternest test yet.

Rubi Light is a high-class chaser but faces stronger opposition than when a 5-length winner of this race a year ago. Will need to be better than ever on his reappearance if there is to be any chance of a repeat.

Sir des Champs overcame a last-fence blunder to preserve his unbeaten record at Punchestown in April and impressive winner of the Jewson at Cheltenham the time before. Will be very hard to beat if jumping holds up.

Timeform 1-2-3:
1. Sir des Champs
2. Flemenstar
3. Bog Warrior

Timeform view: A fascinating clash between the 2 best Irish novices of last season, both of which are currently single-figure prices for the Gold Cup. There is precious little between them on form but we'll take Sir des Champs to pounce late and get the better of Flemenstar. Bog Warrior and Rubi Light are good chasers in their own right but should be left fighting it out for third.