TimeformBlog

Clash Duff won the last of his 5 starts in points in Ireland before being bought to join current yard for £7,500 at Cheltenham in May 2010. Makes belated Rules bow in a hot race, and easy enough to overlook.

Duke of Lucca was a useful hurdler who was a promising runner-up to Ace High at Chepstow (3m) on his chase debut in October. Not so fluent when below that form at Ascot last time, but every chance if jumping holds up.

Habbie Simpson was not discredited against top novices over hurdles last season, and would have matched pick of form in that sphere but for unseating 3 out at Ffos Las on chase debut. Clearly good enough to win.

Joker Choker improved over hurdles in the spring, and stepped forward again when fourth of 18 behind Rangitoto at Cheltenham last month. Sure to have been well prepped for chase debut, and worth considering.

Lord Ragnar was a fairly useful hurdler for Nicky Henderson in 2009/10. Jumped stickily when tried over fences twice early this year, and ran poorly reverted to hurdles when last seen in March. Starts out for new yard.

Master Alfredo is a big gelding who has achieved little of note over obstacles, looking a clumsy jumper into the bargain. Tongue tied now, but can't be fancied.

Midnight Sail was a useful novice hurdler in 2008/9 when sixth in Spa Hurdle at Cheltenham. Disappointing on only outing following season, and not seen since. Yard has more obvious claims with Habbie Simpson.

Sang Bleu proved to be a useful juvenile hurdler in 2009/10, having arrived from France with a tall reputation. Jumping let him down on both chase starts last season, and has a bit to prove on his return to action.

Webberys Dream was well held in bumpers, and although he managed to win a point in April, was readily brushed aside on chase debut at Exeter last month, and isn't easy to fancy here.

Molly Round was a progressive hurdler last season, winning 3 handicaps up to 3m. Has failed to complete on both chase outings, although blameless when brought down last time. Will find easier opportunities.

Timeform 1-2-3:
1. Habbie Simpson
2. Joker Choker
3. Duke of Lucca

Timeform Verdict: Habbie Simpson was running well until unseating 3 out at Ffos Las, and will go close if learning from that. He's preferred to the frustrating Duke of Lucca, and chasing-newcomer Joker Choker may pose a more potent threat.

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