Verdict

Solid Strike, four times a winner between the flags, was beaten a long way in a similar race to this at Southwell three weeks ago, though that was his first start for a year. Desilvano has scored between the flags, a bumper and twice over hurdles including here though it's a very long time since he showed any real form. VERY FIRST TIME fell when holding every chance on his chasing debut but gained compensation with easy victories at Hexham and Newcastle. He just failed to concede 13lb to Acdc in a three-horse race at Kelso last time and can return to winning ways. Alzammaar was left on his own when his two rivals fell here in December but produced a decent effort when runner-up to the odds-on Barney Dwan at Musselburgh so is an obvious threat in receipt of 6lb.

Formwatch

Very First Time 4-9fav (11-10) Led, pressed from 2 out, ridden after last, headed towards finish, no extra, 2nd of 3, 1/2l behind Acdc (11-4) at Kelso 2m 6f (4) hvy in Jan.

Alzammaar (USA) 18-1 (11-4) Jumped left, led until 7th, outpaced in last when left 3rd and hampered 4 out, went 2nd last, no impression on winner, 2nd of 5, 5l behind Barney Dwan (11-4) at Musselburgh 2m 4f (3) gs in Feb.

Desilvano 50-1 (11-4) Towards rear, struggling from 5 out, 10th of 20, dist behind Kansas City Chief (11-12) at Doncaster 3m hcp (4) sft in Jan.

Solid Strike 33-1 (10-12) Always last, never a factor, tailed off, last of 5, 32 1/2l behind Two Swallows (10-5) at Southwell 2m 4f (4) sft in Feb.