Racing: Cheltenham Gold Cup hero War Of Attrition and race specialist Beef Or Salmon feature among an eight-strong field for the Lexus Chase at the latest confirmation stage.
The former found Michael Hourigan's charge, three times a winner of the Lexus, just too strong when the pair last clashed at Down Royal back in November before finishing second to In Compliance over two and a half miles last time.
Former classy hurdler Back In Front stands his ground along with Sher Beau, Southern Vic and Noel Meade's Wild Passion, who would be having his first attempt over three miles if lining up at Leopardstown on December 28.
The JP McManus-owned L'Ami is set to represent Francois Doumen, while British hopes rest solely on the shoulders of Robert Alner's grey The Listener.