EXETER 14:20

Non Runners: COURT MINSTREL (IRE). Fences: 12. Race Distance Adjustment: +13 yds

Time: 4m 26.8s Closing Sectional: (2.15f): 35.2s (92.8%)

Overrounds: Industry SP 111%, Betfair SP 100.4%

A small field for Exeter's highlight of the season but, as ever, a really interesting contest, open according to the market but producing a decisive winner, several of his rivals clearly not at their best yet the style of his victory hard to fault, a progressive second-season chaser in the best yard in Britain, so an obvious one to keep on side.

VIBRATO VALTAT (FR) a smart novice last season, though he came up short at the very highest level, was better than ever on his return after 6 months off, likely to have won even more convincingly without hitting the last and giving the impression he has matured over the summer; handy, travelled well, led 3 out, clear when blundered last, kept on, ridden out; likely to go next for the Tingle Creek and clearly worth his chance in that, though a bit more likely to be required.

THIRD INTENTION (IRE) ran another fine race in form terms, though there was an element of picking up the pieces about his performance, taking second after the winner had gone, the races he's been placed in this season not the deepest; held up, pushed along early in straight, stayed on after 2 out, took second run-in, no impression on winner.

GOD'S OWN (IRE) couldn't repeat his win of the previous season, off a mark 5 lb higher, but he ran respectably, the race not set up for him to the same extent; tracked pace, took keen hold, every chance 3 out, not quicken; he may not be the easiest to place in terms of winning this season but is likely to continue to run with credit.

DUNRAVEN STORM (IRE) wasn't up to the task, back on softer ground, soon put in his place when the winner came through, just unable to make an impact off this mark and likely to struggle until getting some respite; led, pushed along straight, headed 3 out, beaten quickly.

SIRE DE GRUGY (FR) could have excuses made for him, after 7 months off and after a significant blunder, but, after a largely underwhelming season (which started late and didn't go to script at the start) in 2014/15, he has quite a bit to prove and the likelihood is that he's not the force of old; waited with, bad mistake fourth, effort straight, every chance 3 out, weakened after 2 out, eased run-in.