bet365 December Novices' Chase (Grade 2) (GBB Race)

Off time: 12:55 | Winning time: 6m 6.75s

Threeunderthrufive²⁷

Age: 6| Weight: 11-5| J: Adrian Heskin| T: P F Nicholls| OR: 149| D

4/7

Four-time hurdle winner last season who has continued on the up over fences, readily scoring in 3m novices at Exeter and Cheltenham. Sound jumper, and the one to beat.

Form: 161-211

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Emitom²⁴

Age: 7| Weight: 11-2| J: B S Hughes| T: W Greatrex| OR: 143| BF| D

6/1

Smart hurdler. Yet to score in three runs over fences, but he posted a solid effort when second in 3m Hexham novice chase 24 days ago. More is needed if he's to upset the favourite here though.

Form: 4/236P-2

Fantastikas²⁵

Age: 6| Weight: 11-2| J: Jordan Nailor| T: N & W Twiston-Davies| OR: 136| D

5/2

Scopey sort who stepped up on his fairly useful hurdle form when making winning chasing debut in 3m handicap at Lingfield 25 days ago. Has more to offer, and he shouldn't be underestimated.

Form: 22213-1

Forecasts

Threeunderthrufive (4/7), Fantastikas (5/2), Emitom (6/1)

THREEUNDERTHRUFIVE holds a clear edge on form and is fancied to complete a quick hat-trick in this sphere after jumping soundly when scoring at Exeter and Cheltenham. Fantastikas is a real chasing tye and feared most on the back of his ready Lingfield success ahead of Emitom.