Greg Watson's Half Century Novices' Chase

Drumcliff would face a stiff task even if his current official rating was accurate. However, that is doubted as he outjumped blundering rivals to score last time and the handicapper appears to have taken the performance too literally. Copain De Classe has been put away to await better ground since his eyecatching run behind Benatar at Ascot in November. That run signifies he will undoubtedly open his account over fences soon, but a further two month break makes TREE OF LIBERTY a more appealing proposition. The Arkle entry is held in high regard and came up against a top-class horse last time. He was a better hurdler than Copain de Classe and has always been regarded as the sort to do even better over fences.

1. Tree Of Liberty
2. Copain De Classe
3. Drumcliff