Racing: Synchronised was a notable absentee from 65 six-day John Smith's Grand National acceptors. Jonjo O'Neill had indicated his Midlands National third may head to Aintree but he has been taken out of the race along with Irish challenger Notre Pere.
Both were are short as 20-1 in places.
Last year's National hero Don't Push It heads 65 remaining entries, with Scotsirish, Notre Pere, Ballytrim and Nedzer's Return the other horses who were in the race proper to have been withdrawn.
Although Willie Mullins has taken out Scotsirish and the injured Ballytrim, the Irish champion trainer still has a strong hand, headed by ante-post favourite The Midnight Club.
The Carlow maestro can also call upon Dooneys Gate, as well as Arbor Supreme and Our Monty, who are now the final two horses guaranteed a place in the 40-runner race.
Royal Rosa joins that pair on 10st 3lb but as he comes out worst on official ratings, he is 41st on the list and therefore needs one horse above him to come out.
British champion Paul Nicholls is still searching for an elusive first National triumph and he, too, is mob-handed, with Gold Cup fourth What A Friend seemingly the best of his team.
The Tother One, Niche Market and Ornais are other likely contenders for the Ditcheat handler.
Backstage, Ballabriggs, Oscar Time, Big Fella Thanks and Silver By Nature also figure in the remaining entries.
Completing the nine defections are the Topham Chase-bound Frankie Figg, One Cool Cookie, who died in a gallops accident on Friday, and Dev.
