Kauto Star just held on from Imperial Commander in a pulsating renewal of the Betfair Chase at Haydock. The pair had it between them all the way up the straight, with a fine leap three out from Kauto Star looking to have given him the advantage.
But Imperial Commander – unproven over the three-mile trip – really dug deep and was getting back at the 4-6 favourite all the way to the line. A tense wait ensued as the judge studied the photograph, with the verdict going to Kauto Star by a nose.
Paddy Power reacted by keeping Kauto Star unchaanged;
Gold Cup Paddy Power bets: 7-4 Kauto Star (unchanged), 9-2 Denman, 10 Imperial Commander (from 20), Cooldine, 25 bar
Albertas Run has been inserted into the Gold Cup betting at 33-1
