TimeformBlog

Saveiro jumped better than has often been the case over fences when justifying market support at Wetherby last week. 7 lb penalty for that success partly offset by rider's claim and one to beat here.

Blacktoft won a Newton Abbot novice last season, but first campaign over fences was an inconsistent one and he stopped as if amiss returning from lengthy absence back over hurdles last month.

Storm Surge picked up a pair of handicaps from the front this season, the latest coming in cheekpieces at Haydock in December. Run poorly in 2 starts since, however, and needs to bounce back.

Gentleman Jeff was a hurdles winner for Dermot Weld and ran best race over fences when runner-up over C&D last month. Failed to build on that next time, but hurdles win did come in the blinkers that return here.

Zazamix has never been one to rely on, but ran well when runner-up to Saveiro at Wetherby last week. Can't be certain to reproduce that effort, but place claims once again if on a going day.

Ouest Eclair turned in an improved effort when opening hurdling account in 2m handicap at Warwick in March, but not at his best recently, failing to convince with his attitude in 2 starts over fences to date.

Just Maddie is a winning hurdler who made the frame in a couple of modest handicap chases in December, including over C&D. Lost touch after blundering at the eighth at Musselburgh last time.

Ice Image won a handicap at Sedgefield a year ago and although yet to fire this time around, his stable is just starting to turn the corner and he has been given a chance by the assessor.

Timeform 1-2-3:
1. Saveiro
2. Ice Image
3. Zazamix

Timeform View: Saveiro improved when winning at Wetherby last week and looks to have a good chance of following up under his penalty. A more positive showing from Ice Image would not surprise and he can fill the placings along with Zazamix.

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