Napolitain en route to victory at Sandown.

By William Hayler, PA Sport

Napolitain showed plenty of resolution to see off favourite Gallant Approach in the Racing Post 20 Years of Service Pendil Novices' Chase at Sandown on Saturday.

The Paul Nicholls-trained gelding had looked a shade fortunate to score here last month when leader Turpin Green had tried to refuse in front of him.

But there was no suggestion of a fluke here as he was joined by his rival on the home turn before accelerating ahead again approaching the second-last fence and keeping on for a five-length verdict.

Nicholls said after the race that he had been confident of a good result and earmarked the Royal & SunAlliance Chase (25-1 from 33-1 with Totesport and Paddy Power) as a next stopping point.

"I knew I had him in top form for today and that he would go out and attack his fences," he said.

"He has improved his jumping since he started off over fences and that is the main thing.

"He was keeping on galloping and we might have to look at the SunAlliance. I have also got Star de Mohaison for that race, but there wouldn't be much between them."