Verdict

With Exstoto likely to take up an alternative engagement at Ascot, a field of eight will probably do battle in this competitive handicap hurdle. Malcolm Jefferson's Another Chance faces a stiff task after lengthy absence from the track, while both Noel's Pride and Totally Scottish now seem plenty high enough in the weights. Despite running well behind Inching Closer at Haydock last week, Peter Niven's Talarive has yet to prove he really stays this trip, while Nickel Sun is arguably better on a faster surface. There was plenty to like about the way Lawz saw off his rivals at Fontwell last time but a 9lb rise since then looks harsh and a better bet may be Ferdy Murphy's Island Faith. The son of Turtle Island will be well at home under these conditions, comes here in good form having beaten St Matthew over course and distance last month and has seemingly been let in lightly under just 10st 3lb. He gets the vote.