held up towards rear, headway 5th, close up when bad mistake 3 out, not recover
tracked leader throughout, ridden to chase winner 3 out, no impression
led, clear when hit 4th, ridden and headed approaching 3 out, weakened
held up in touch, headway 5th, led approaching 3 out, driven 2 out, pushed out, comfortable
tracked leaders, ridden and lost place 4th, headway approaching next, ridden to chase leaders 3 out, one pace flat
held up towards rear, driven and headway 5th, weakened 3 out
towards rear, ridden and stayed on for poor 4th from 3 out
Yet another tricky event with four unbeaten horses to watch out for Manners, Forager, Moonstream and Secret Ploy, with the last named just getting the nod. Hughie Morrison does well with his hurdlers and this four-year-old could be another good recruit for the yard having landed a hat-trick of victories in bumpers last season. He left the best while last beating some very good sorts over the course. If he is fit after eight months off he could be the one to be on. Manners also comes here following two bumper victories and is sure to go close for top connections. Forager was most impressive when beating some decent types on his first visit to the racecourse in May. But a bigger threat to the selection may be provided by Nicky Henderson's Moonstream who landed two bumpers last season in great style, despite running green. He is very well regarded by the stable and can make his presence felt over hurdles before one day becoming a decent fencer. So a very difficult contest to access, all four main contenders will have been well schooled, but we just give the vote to Secret Ploy.
