Hobgoblin Handicap Hurdle

Still to score over hurdles but shaped encouragingly in first-time cheekpieces and hood combination when second of 7 in a C&D handicap in October. Failed to build on that promise at Plumpton the following month, though.

Placed in a bumper on debut and showed more under a positive ride second time up over hurdles when fourth of 18 at Wincanton (15f) in December. Possibly needed the run when well held at Newton Abbot 4 months later and has since made an interesting yard switch (previously trained by David Brace).

Fairly useful performer on the level (stays 1¼m). Showed more than first time up over hurdles when second in 17f maiden at Newcastle in January but failed to repeat that effort at Catterick next time. Needs more now entering handicaps fit from the Flat.

Maiden who produced much her best effort under a marked change of tactics when second of 5 in 2m handicap at Catterick in February. Failed to reproduce that form with patient tactics readopted back there later in the month, though.

Made it 2 wins from as many starts in handicaps hurdles in 10-runner event at Taunton (19f, good) 24 days ago, going with enthusiasm. Looks capable of completing the hat-trick.

Shaped well when third in a Ffos Las bumper on debut. Best effort over hurdles when fourth of 15 in maiden at Wetherby (2m, good) in March and brings an unexposed profile to his handicap debut.

Opened his hurdles account on second run following a lengthy absence over C&D last spring. Mixed bag since, though did take a step back in the right direction when sixth of 13 in 2m handicap at Taunton on latest start.

Bounced back to form on just second start for current connections when 2 lengths third of 16 to Spartan Times in C&D handicap (good, 66/1) a fortnight ago. Meets that rival on 4 lb better terms but that may not be enough to reverse the form.