FCN Novices' Hurdle (GBB Race)

4YO plus | Class 4 | 2m 5f 5y | 5 Runners | Turf

Age: 4| Weight: 11-6| J: J J Burke| T: James Owen| BF

Fairly useful Flat performer who didn't have much to beat when easing to hurdling debut success at Plumpton (2m) in September. Disappointed in a stronger race at Stratford last time, though, and faces no easy task under a penalty.

Form: 15

Image of Stars that are filled with the colour gold

Dylans Moon²⁰⁴

Age: 6| Weight: 11-0| J: Jack Andrews| T: T Ellis

Made an encouraging start to his career at Uttoxeter in March where he stayed on to take third from a less-than-ideal position in a 2½m novice hurdle. Crashed out in X-rated fashion in similar event at Ffos Las following month, though and not seen since. Claims on debut effort.

Form: 3F-

Kefir D'oudairies^t²⁵⁶

Bumper scorer who didn't really kick on after finishing second in a maiden hurdle at Market Rasen last season. Returns from 9-month absence with yard in good nick, though, and looks one to consider, particularly if the breathing operation he's had since last seen has a positive impact.

Form: 21/5244-

Orchard County³²

Age: 4| Weight: 10-13| J: Sam Twiston-Davies| T: N & W Twiston-DaviesWS

Poet's Word gelding. Disputing the lead when fell last only start in Irish points in February but made very little impression on hurdling debut at Chepstow last month. Hopes resting on recent breathing operation proving beneficial.

Form: F-0

Largy Force¹⁸¹

Age: 8| Weight: 10-7| J: K Brogan| T: O Murphy| OR: 127WS

Has done well over fences for current connections, winning 3 of her last 5 starts, landing a 3m handicap at Perth when last seen in May, Has had breathing operation since and very much one to consider back over hurdles and receiving weight from all 4 of her rivals.

Form: 21212-1

Forecasts

Largy Force (13/8), Dylans Moon (3/1), Arcturus Flame (7/2), Kefir D'oudairies (4/1), Orchard County (20/1)

LARGY FORCE was thriving over fences when last seen and, back over hurdles after a breathing operation, looks worth siding with under favourable conditions. Stablemate Kefir d’Oudairies is the main threat if belatedly building on last season’s Market Rasen second, while Dylans Moon is also dangerous if reproducing his debut form.