MacBet Laying Bets Since 1972 Handicap Chase

Enhanced his excellent record at Worcester when winning 8-runner handicap chase last month. However, that does look weak form for the grade and he's opposable off 4 lb higher.

Bagged his second chase win at Doncaster in December and not disgraced since. Opposable over this trip, however.

Grand servant to connections and took advantage of reduced mark when narrow winner at Plumpton in March. Backed that up with good third (behind Everyday Champagne) over C&D 5 weeks ago and should go well again.

Quite a useful hurdler for Paul Nicholls and struck at the second time of asking for his new stable in small-field handicap at Carlisle (25f, heavy) in December. Below that level since, however, and questions to answer back in this sphere (didn't take to chasing for previous yard).

Produced a career best when doubling his chase tally at Musselburgh in November and best effort since when an eye-catching fourth at Ayr (20.5f) in the spring. Down the field back over hurdles next time but shaped for a long way as though back in form when fourth over C&D 5 weeks ago.

Took advantage of reduced mark when completing a C&D hat-trick in August/September. Runner-up at Carlisle next 2 outings. Well held last 2 starts 7 months apart but shaped as if needing his comeback so better expected now.

Made a winning start for this yard at Ayr (20.5f, good) in November. Got back on track under a positive ride returned to less testing ground when going down narrowly at Kelso (23.4f, good) before excellent second over C&D 5 weeks ago, doing well under the circumstances. One to be interested in.

Dual hurdles winner at this venue last spring but struggled since, including on chase bow here (20f) 10 days ago. 1 lb out of the handicap.