Point-to-point winner on good ground in Ireland back in May 2018 but struggled in three Rules starts over hurdles for previous yard. Wears a tongue tie for the first time on chase and stable debut.
Maiden hurdle winner on good-to-firm ground at Fontwell (2m3f) in October last year. Beaten a neck on chase debut over an extended 2m5f at Fontwell (good) in early October and is interesting despite falling last time out.
Put a fall two out on chase debut at Market Rasen (2m1f, good-to-soft) behind him when finishing 7½L third in a 2m3f novices' handicap chase at Ascot (good-to-soft) last time out. Likely to play a leading role in this contest.
Dual hurdles winner was beaten 16L when seventh in a 2m3f handicap hurdle at Haydock (good-to-soft) on seasonal debut last month. Currently rated 139 in that sphere and is one to note on debut over fences.
Soft ground maiden hurdle winner over an extended 2m3f at Chepstow in December las tyear. Placed on both subsequent starts including when 11L second on chase debut at Aintree (2m4f, soft) last month.
Forecasts
Earlofthecotswolds (7/4), Present Value (2/1), Kateson (5/2), Darlac (8/1), Black Centaur (40/1)
EARLOFTHECOTSWOLDS can put his chasing experience to good use by getting off the mark at the third time of asking over fences by registering a victory in this decent looking small field novices' chase. The selection can see off useful hurdler Kateson who is making his chasing debut. Darlac can put a fall last time out behind him to claim third.