WITH Richard Johnson on the sidelines, there was a degree of trepidation about how the hugely popular Native River (Colin Tizzard/Jonjo O’Neill Jr) would gel with a new rider, given that he and the champion jockey have been viewed as a match made in heaven.

In the end, there was no need for concern, as the 2018 Cheltenham Gold Cup winner took his third Denman Chase at an SP of 2/5, matching Altior’s achievement in the Game Spirit, and he was not hard pressed to repel the late challenge of Secret Investor (Paul Nicholls/Harry Cobden) by two and three quarter lengths, with the regressive Might Bite (Nicky Henderson/Nico de Boinville) beaten over 10 lengths in third in what was a rather disappointing field for the grade.

Native River largely jumped boldly and well, particularly when required, although it’s notable that he got close to the cross fence on both circuits, that being the fence which comes closest to a bend at Newbury.

He had rivals snapping at his heels coming to the last ditch, where he put in a big leap and then set sail, drawing an error from the runner-up at the next fence which put the race beyond doubt. This proves that his old ability remains intact, while blinkers are certainly a help to his focus.

He would not be without a chance in the Gold Cup again, but it’s long been the case that he appeals as the sort to take really well to the Grand National fences, and he was well backed when the weights were released for that race on Tuesday.

His owners, Garth and Anne Broom have expressed reservations about running their flag-bearer in the Aintree spectacular, but the signs are that their opposition may be softening to the idea.