Menabrea Novices' Hurdle

Decent novice who has won two of his four hurdles starts this campaign, including over C&D in December (soft), despite not being fluent. Not disgraced in a Grade Two at Haydock last time, no problem with conditions or this drop in trip and should give a very good account.

Former Nicky Richards inmate, who changed hands for just £800 last year after one bumper run and has already scored for new connections, doing so here over 2m on heavy ground in January. Pedigree suggests that this step up in trip is very likely to suit and could go very well.

Gave Progress Drive 7lb and was beaten just 1L by that reopposing rival when runner-up here in December (soft) and now meets him on 14lb better terms. Has since gone on to land a maiden over C&D to prove that was no fluke and he looks the one to beat.

Dual chase winner who makes his hurdles debut here after failing to get further than the first fence in his last two starts. Looks to have plenty on to make an impression.

Runner-up in an Irish point-to-point for Michael Hourigan in January and makes his debut for new connections today. This trip is not a bad starting point, though he is likely to do better over further.