The Punt Daily: Robbie Wilders' two each-way plays at Cheltenham on Friday

EACH-WAY PLAY

Tax For Max (2.10 Cheltenham)

Willie Mullins landed the County Hurdle with a five-year-old a couple of years ago and I could see the same happening this year with Tax For Max, who is worth backing each-way with seven places available with several firms. Tax For Max was close to top class on the Flat, finishing fifth in the Group 1 Grosser Preis Von Bayern, but has failed to score over hurdles in four starts for Mullins despite running some promising races. Teahupoo swept him aside by seven lengths in a Grade 3 on his hurdling debut and he struggled in the Triumph next time, but keenness has plagued his career over hurdles and contributed to his defeats. A gelding operation can help him settle better and the strong pace in the County is key to his chance. Mullins landed the County with one from a long layoff before.

EACH-WAY PLAY

Protektorat (3.30 Cheltenham)

Everything looks in place for Protektorat to claim Gold Cup glory for Dan Skelton. Second-season novices have a strong record in the race and Protektorat's dominant Many Clouds Chase victory, one of the standout staying chase performances of the season on his first try over further than three miles, seems to have been underestimated. Versatile regarding ground conditions, Protektorat has plenty of course form and Dan Skelton is a dab hand with readying horses for the big day after a break. It would be a major surprise if Protektorat didn't finish in the first four. He is the perfect age, progressing all the time and is open to abundant progression over staying trips.

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