Betway Mersey Novices' Hurdle (Grade 1)

Off time: 14:26 | Winning time: 4m 49.8s

Odds by:

Live Odds

Odds

Angels Breath

3/1

11/4

Brewin'upastorm

10/3, 3/1

10/3

One For Rosie

5/1, 11/2

5/1

Chosen Mate

8/1, 15/2, 7/1, 13/2

6/1

Kateson

6/1, 11/2, 5/1, 11/2

6/1

Umbrigado

7/1, 8/1, 17/2, 8/1, 9/1

10/1

Reserve Tank

20/1

The Big Bite

25/1, 28/1

25/1

Colonel Custard

33/1, 28/1, 25/1, 28/1, 33/1, 28/1

25/1

SP Book Percentage 116.53

Forecasts

Angels Breath (11/4), Brewin'upastorm (10/3), One For Rosie (5/1), Chosen Mate (6/1), Kateson (6/1), Umbrigado (10/1), Reserve Tank (20/1), The Big Bite (25/1), Colonel Custard (25/1)

Arguably, this isn't the strongest Grade 1 Novices' Hurdle, but both Tom George (The Big Bite) and Colin Tizzard (Reserve Tank) chase further success following on from Black Op (2018) and Finian's Oscar (2017). The likely favourite Brewin'upastorm is worthy of respect after a solid run in the Ballymore at Cheltenham. Angels Breath could have more too offer now upped in trip, whilst the progressive stayer Umbrigado is untested in the grade. However, we'll seek some value and take aim at Tom Lacey's KATESON. 2m4f on soft ground provides his optimum conditions, and he ran well when finishing third to Champ in the Grade 1 Challow at Newbury in December.