EPIC WARRIOR reverts to novice company after failing to figure in a couple of handicaps since landing a maiden hurdle at Southwell in September. He's very difficult to oppose, despite giving 7lb to his rivals, as neither of Rebecca Curtis' pair (Master Ally or Kanturk Bank) distinguished themselves last time. Hinxworth last ran in a higher grade at Cheltenham but was soon in trouble.
Epic Warrior (IRE) 6-1 (10-13) Tracked leader, led approaching 7th, headed before 3 out, soon lost place, 4th of 6, 15 1/4l behind Ongenstown Lad (10-11) at Ffos Las 3m hcp (3) gd in Oct.
Hinxworth (IRE) 33-1 (10-12) Held up mid-division, lost place after 7 out, 8th of 10, dist behind Atlantic Gold (11-3) at Cheltenham 3m (3) gd in Oct.
Kanturk Bank (IRE) 80-1 (11-0) Held up in touch, weakened from 4 out, 11th of 15, dist behind Tapaculo (11-0) at Chepstow 2m 3f mdn (5) sft in Nov.
Master Ally (IRE) 25-1 (11-0) Led, not fluent 5th, headed before next, behind when pulled up before 3 out, at Stratford 2m 6f mdn (5) sft in Oct.
