12.25 Hexham preview
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Eneko could hardly have been more impressive on his British debut at Perth, but I cannot help but feel he beat a below-par Brutal that day.
This is mainly due to the proximity of Brutal to the third Hot Gossip (seven lengths), who was sent off a 66/1 shot and with good reason having been a poor performer rated 45 on the Flat.
Eneko then ran in a decent-looking race at Wetherby but was beaten 16 lengths and finished last of four. At likely prohibitive odds, he's worth taking on.
I was reasonably taken with Level Of Intensity's win at Sedgefield, where he stepped up on some consistent but modest Flat form in Ireland to win handsomely, albeit in a race which fell apart with his two market rivals under-performing.
A horse who had a similar standard of form of to Level of Intensity on the Flat is CORNERSTONE LAD. He makes his hurdling debut today and receives a handy 7lb from the two former winners, which could make all the difference.
This Micky Hammond-trained three-year-old has been progressing nicely on the level and has shown he relishes a test of stamina, particularly when staying on strongly to score over a mile and a half on soft ground at the stiff Pontefract.
With the weight he receives and the latent ability he possesses, and conditions at Hexham seemingly certain to suit, it's worth chancing his jumping ability with a small saver on Level Of Intensity.
2.00 Hexham preview
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Hattons Hill has a sexy profile and is looking for a six-timer. However, this is his first start of the season on a career-high mark and this will be a brutal test on heavy ground over 4m.
A horse who has fitness on his side and looks like he will relish the test of stamina is SHAKE IT UP. If there are any fitness doubts about the favourite he looks best equipped to take advantage.
