Analysis: The Cleeve Hurdle one-two fought out the finish again and Paul Nicholls' BIG BUCK'S upheld trials day form with Nicky Henderson's Punchestowns. Held up by Ruby Walsh as 100-1 outsider Whatuthink took them along, Big Buck's was produced quietly by the Irishman who made his move two out. Barry Geraghty kicked on Punchestowns just before Walsh made his move, with both riders aware of odds-on favourite Kasbah Bliss who was in their slipstream. The French horse found nothing, though, and was caught for third on the run-in by Powerstation. Francois Doumen was gracious in defeat, and offered no excuses, but his horse didn't look at his best here and could be better than he showed. Whether it was his true running or not, the first two were in a different league today and delivered a memorable renewal of the World Hurdle. Big Buck's looked to have handed the initiative to his rival when hitting the final flight, but regained his rhythm quickly and asserted inside the final furlong. Nicholls' decision to send him hurdling was certainly vindicated and he might not tackle a fence next season now as he could come back to defend his crown. Punchestowns will go novice chasing and he could be a fearsome force in that division.