Evelyn Partners Handicap Hurdle (Div 1)

Successful twice in handicaps in 2021 for Olly Murphy and back to form on stable debut when runner-up at Hereford (21.7f) last month. Below that level at Huntingdon since, though, and overall profile not convincing.

Lightly raced and modest form at best in Ireland but won a couple of points since and made encouraging start for new yard when fourth of 12 in handicap hurdle at Carlisle (20f, heavy) 28 days ago. Entitled to build on that.

Made the frame both starts thus far, latest when third of 9 in novice hurdle at Worcester (16f, good to soft, 3/1) in June. Return to longer trip will suit and enters calculations on handicap debut.

Course winner who posted another creditable effort when fourth of 16 in handicap hurdle at Chepstow (16f, good to soft) 23 days ago. Looks worth another try at this longer trip.

Out of sorts for David Pipe to end 2021 but capitalised on a falling mark for new yard at Newton Abbot (16.8f) in July. Largely acquitted himself well in defeat since and should give another good account here.

Yet to really threaten in sole bumper start or over hurdles and makes limited appeal despite falling handicap mark.

Acquitted himself well again when third of 14 in handicap hurdle at Fontwell (21.8f, good) 29 days ago. Likely to make presence felt once more but others more appealing for win purposes.

Opened account in Sedgefield handicap (16.8f) in May and far from disgraced when fourth of 8 in follow-up bid at Ffos Las (20f, good to soft) 23 day later. Remains low mileage and returns on a workable mark.

Ran respectably when fifth of 10 in handicap hurdle at Uttoxeter (19.9f, good to soft) 5 days ago but remains a long-standing maiden and will likely find 1 or 2 too good again here.