FGD Kingmaker Novices' Chase (Grade 2) (GBB Race)

5YO plus | Class 1 | 2m 54y | 3 Runners | Turf

Age: 7| Weight: 11-5| J: Tristan Durrell| T: D Skelton| OR: 143| CD

Useful chaser who walked over here in November and emerged as only finisher under gruelling conditions in 4-runner Aintree novice chase. Over 7 lengths behind Matata when third in Grade 2 at Lingfield since so work to do off same terms.

Form: 5-24113

Bourbali²⁹

Age: 7| Weight: 11-2| J: Freddie Gingell| T: J Tizzard| OR: 130

Jumped accurately when seeing off sole rival at Kempton (18f) in November. Limitations exposed in Grade 2 there next time before decent second back in handicap company at Wincanton. Up against it back at this level.

Form: 42-P142

Matata²⁰

Age: 6| Weight: 11-2| J: D A Jacob| T: N & W Twiston-Davies| OR: 148| D

Headstrong sort who impressed when successful on return/chase debut at Ffos Las (2m) in October. Good runner-up efforts both starts since, including in Grade 2 at Lingfield 3 weeks ago, and should prove hard to beat in this company.

Form: R16-122

Forecasts

Matata (4/11), Pembroke (11/4), Bourbali (14/1)

MATATA went close in a similar event at Lingfield 3 weeks ago and this looks an excellent opportunity for him to go one better. Pembroke can follow him home again.