Phil Nelson Capercaillie Handicap Chase

Best effort over fences when third in listed handicap at Gowran last month. Failed to meet expectations in similar event at Fairyhouse next time but big shout back down in class here.

In process of running well when falling 4 out on return at Wetherby and showed no ill effects when second at Sandown (15.5f) next time. Shaped as if still in form at Newbury (20f) since and return to 2m in his favour. Headgear on.

Well served by test of speed when capitalising on reduced mark at Musselburgh (15.8f). Shaped as if still in form there since and not taken lightly back down in class/trip.

Made light of a 30-month absence when landing 4-runner handicap chase at Musselburgh in November. Not in the same form when falling at the last at Newcastle (20.1f) but wasted no time getting back to form when second at former track. Respected.

Front runner who capitalised on a drop in grade when scoring over fences here (20f) in August and backed that up with good second at Cartmel. However, not been in same form since and up against it from out of the handicap.