Verdict

An intriguing contest despite the small field as both Bugsie Malone and Cuirassier Dempire are far better known as steeplechasers and it's fascinating to witness both pitching up in novice hurdle company. Both command respect on their chasing exploits but neither has actually landed a victory over timber and it may prove best to stay with THE DEVILS DROP despite the concession of 7lb to the aforementioned pair. The King inmate looked very well when cantering home unchallenged in an uncompetitive maiden hurdle at Southwell but is going the right way and has scope for further progression. Sad Eyed Dylan is also interesting on this first run for Tim Vaughan after an easy success in an Irish point in May.

Formwatch

The Devils Drop (IRE) 4-7fav (10-12) Tracked leaders, challenged after omitted 3 out, led before 2 out, soon clear, won at Southwell 3m mdn (4) gd in Jun beating Equus Flight (10-12) by 24l, 4 ran.

Bugsie Malone (IRE) 11-1 (10-0) Made most until 11th, weakened before 3 out, 10th of 18, 37 3/4l behind Virgilio (11-12) at Uttoxeter 3m 2f hcp lst (1) gd in Jul.

Cuirassier Dempire (FR) 2-1fav (11-6) Chased leaders on outside, led 4 out, headed next, soon led again, clear before last, very easily, won at Bangor 3m hcp (4) gs in Oct beating Anteros (11-0) by 11l, 8 ran.

Dollnamix (FR) 25-1 (11-0) Jumped right, held up in rear, headway approaching omitted 3 out, soon went 4th, no impression, 5th of 7, 31 1/4l behind Montanna (10-10) at Ffos Las 2m 4f (4) gd in Jun.

Sad Eyed Dylan 10-1 (12-2) Ld,10l adv 1/2way, red adv 4out, qckn strongly bef last, kow on run-in, easily, won at Oldcastle 3m mdn gd in May beating Quill Road (12-2) by 8l, 12 ran.