Best effort in two starts since wind surgery came when finishing 16L third over 3m1f on good-to-soft ground here in November. Drop in trip here a positive and cheekpieces worn for the first time last time out are retained.
C&D winner returned to the winners enclosure with victory over an extended 1m7f on good-to-soft ground here just over a fortnight ago. Raised 6lb for that effort and is a leading contender in this event.
Ran well when fourth in a small field C&D beginners event on chase debut here in November. Well beaten in a 2m5f novices' handicap chase at Carlisle (heavy) subsequently and is interesting if putting that latest effort behind him.
Failed to figure when beaten 86L in finishing last of six in a 2m4f handicap hurdle at Sedgefield (soft) on seasonal debut in October. Making his first start since wind surgery and market support would be notable.
13 race maiden was beaten 33L when last of eight behind Reverant Cust over an extended 1m7f on good-to-soft going here a fortnight ago. Probably best watched at present.
Passed the post first prior to being disqualified in a C&D handicap chase on soft ground last weekend. Notable runner having won over C&D in the past despite having to race from out of the weights on this occasion.
REVERANT CUST was a winner here last time out and he can follow up that victory by taking this handicap chase stepping up in distance. The selection can see off Paddling who has been running well in lesser races in recent times while third place can go to Manwell who filled the same position at Sedgefield on his most recent outing.