Sat, November 23, 2024

Assuming the victory from last weekend did not leave a mark DOYEN QUEST (8) could take some stopping. This progressive Dan Skelton trained hurdler has just the profile required for this contest. The manner in which he scored at Cheltenham over 3m suggests a 8lb penalty could be within range. Stablemate CATCH HIM DERRY (14) won three of his last four and with the step back up in trip to suit he must be respected under 3lb claimer Tristan Durrell. It's tough to rule out SHOOT FIRST (2) who looked to be in need of a step back up in trip when fifth at Galway returning four weeks ago. Fellow Irish raider BACKMERSACKME (11) is of interest given the connections won this last year.