No Rematch emerges as another Welsh National contender for Evan Williams

Evan Williams realised his dream of winning the Welsh Grand National with Secret Reprieve last month and the trainer could have a new contender after No Rematch impressed on his chase debut.

Like Secret Reprieve, No Rematch was ridden by Adam Wedge and races in the colours of the Rucker family, whose patience in the seven-year-old – off the track for almost a year – was rewarded.

"We half-forgot about him!" said Williams. "He was home with Mr and Mrs Rucker, and didn't have anything wrong with him, but was just a young horse who needed time and sometimes they stay in the field and you suddenly remember them and think, 'Oh Christ'.

"He was in the field looking well and horses like him benefit from being owned by people like the Ruckers. He was always going to develop into a chaser and he needs proper deep, heavy ground."

On the possibility of a Welsh National bid this year, Williams said: "Surely it can't happen again. We've always loved him and you can see why. He gets those big fences in front of him and enjoys them."

Secret Reprieve: possible Grand National contenderCredit: Edward Whitaker

Plans are fluid for Secret Reprieve and Williams added: "He's had a quiet month since his win and won't go to Haydock for the Grand National Trial as it will come too quick. I don't think Cheltenham is the thing for him and I'd like to go for the Grand National, but nothing has been confirmed."

Buck scores for Stewart

The Welsh Grand National may also be a future target for Young Buck, who carried Andy Stewart's distinctive red, white and black silks to victory in the 2m7½f novice hurdle.

Harry Derham, assistant trainer to Paul Nicholls, said "The track suits as it's all about stamina. He's a grand staying chaser for the autumn and I'd say he'll be back here a lot as this type of track suits him."

Derham suggested the Grade 2 Albert Bartlett Prestige Novices' Hurdle at Haydock on February 20 could be next for Young Buck.

Lion king for Mann

Trainer Charlie Mann worked his magic in the 3m2f handicap chase with The Lion Dancer, who had been pulled up on his last four starts.

"I'm a better trainer than you thought!" Mann joked. "To be honest I haven't got a clue as he won three in a row three years ago and then fractured his pelvis.

Charlie Mann: 'I'd literally given up on him'Credit: David Dew

"I've done all sorts with him and he was going to be given away as a hunter next week if he hadn't won today, so I'm amazed - I'd literally given up on him."

The Lion Dancer, who returned at 14-1, was ridden by Gavin Sheehan, who doubled up on Easy As That in the 2m3½f handicap hurdle.

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