A winner in point-to-points, bumpers and over hurdles; winning novices twice at Carlisle. Tried over fences the last twice in level weights contests and the switch to handicaps may well help, although mark still looks a stiff one.
Has shown some reasonable form over hurdles and fences getting off the mark with a win at Kelso (2m5f) in his handicap chase debut on penultimate start. Up 10lb for that at Newcastle next time and failed to match that form when reverting to more patient tactics.
Scored over C&D on his penultimate start in conditions that were very similar to his hurdles win at the track. That race has worked out well (second and third won next time out) and he ran creditably here over the same trip last time and should remain competitive off his current mark.
Four starts over fences so far with his sole win coming in a match at Sedgefield last time out. Still looks as though he could do better and receives weight from all his rivals in what are sure to be testing conditions.
Just a small field go to post here but they can all be given some sort of chance. Baby Bach looks to have a fairly tough mark over fences though, and it won’t be easy giving weight away all-round. Angus Milan may well have been harshly handicapped for his recent win and that leaves Master Ruffitt, who has some good form here, and CHIDSWELL to fight this out. The latter will find this tougher than when winning a match at Sedgefield last time out but the weight he receives might just tip the balance in his favour.
1. Chidswell
2. Master Ruffit
3. Angus Milan