BetVictor Favourite Things, Bet Boosts Handicap Hurdle

Justified very short prices against inferior opposition over fences at Wetherby/Kelso this season but struggled in more competitive events in other 2 starts this term, including over hurdles.

Ended a long losing run in 2m Haydock handicap in January, albeit with nothing to spare under this rider. Good third of 4 in International Hurdle at Cheltenham (16.8f, soft) since, though almost certainly flattered by proximity in falsely-run race. C&D winner who needs considering in this company.

Useful hurdler for Willie Mullins, winning listed event at Listowel in September. However, sent off a big price and was one of the first beaten starting out for this yard at Warwick 3 weeks ago.

Bumper winner who made a highly promising start in this sphere when second in 2m Cheltenham Grade 2 in October. Opening mark is a fair one on that form but things haven't been plain sailing since (has bled) and refused to line up on intended start last week. Needs treating with caution.

Flat winner who took well to hurdling last winter, winning juveniles at Doncaster/Wetherby. Made an encouraging return when third in handicap at Cheltenham but underperformed for no obvious reason at Windsor last month.

Flat winner in France and similar standard over hurdles, posting good efforts in 2m handicaps at Wetherby and Sandown this winter. Shaped as if still in form before not getting home in a stamina-testing race at Ascot 6 weeks ago and can be expected to bounce back returned to a more suitable trip.

Won a brace of 2m maiden/novice hurdles last term, including over C&D. Yet to hit top form this season, though, well held upped in trip on heavy ground latest.