Final flight error allows McCoy to steal win

The Nicky henderson-trained hurdler – a 1-10 odds-on shot – only landed the spoils after 50-1 stablemate and pacesetter Ruthenoise, ridden by Tinkler, blundered at the final flight after defying his unfancied odds for so long. Binocular was then eased down by Tony McCoy in the dying strides to win by a length-and-three-quarters from Ruthenoise, with Siberian Tiger third of the four.

Binocular was eased by a couple of firms for Cheltenham next month to 100-30, but the JP McManus-owned horse was far from impressive in the corresponding race a year ago before landing a famous victory at the NH Festival.

“He was probably not as impressive as at Kempton (Christmas Hurdle) but it’s hard to judge in a race like this,” said McCoy who looked a relieved man as he discussed the race with Tinkler after passing the line.

“He didn’t jump as well as he can, but with just three other horses you are more careful in case one falls or something.

“He was more impressive at Kempton, but you can’t go on what he did here in a race like this. He seems in good form, he’s progressing and hopefully we will get him to Cheltenham the same as last year.”

Binocular’s rivals at Cheltenham will almost certainly include stablemate Oscar Whisky who was an effortless winner of the William Hill Welsh Champion Hurdle.