TimeformBlog

Russian Flag won twice over fences last season, and has fallen to last winning mark, but his efforts this term, including over hurdles, have been underwhelming, and he can't be backed with any confidence.

Phiddipides is not a fluent jumper of fences, but won a novice at Ludlow in November 2010. Has failed to complete on both starts this season, and capitulated tamely when last seen at Musselburgh in January.

Rougham took well to fences last season, winning at Ascot. In frame on all 3 completed starts this season, but prone to mistakes still, and crashed out at Taunton on latest outing. Best when able to lead.

Carrickboy belatedly broke his duck over fences when beating Stopped Out in a 19f Catterick maiden chase in January, and worn down late when runner-up at Ayr next time. On a fair mark for return to handicaps.

Made In Time won handicap chases at Ffos Las and Taunton this winter, and looked set to go close at Cheltenham in January until fading late on having been hampered. May well have more to come, and respected.

Only Vintage's patchy record owes much to sloppy jumping, but cut out mistakes when scoring at Folkestone in January. Back to bad old ways in 2 starts since, although just the type to pop up unexpectedly.

Tyup Pompey goes well at Ludlow, winning twice over 2½m in April. Well below best when last seen in November, though, and may need this return to action.

Alpha Way is a free-going sort who landed second of a trio of chase wins this term over C&D in December. Below form last 2 starts however, for all he faced a stiff task last time, and opposable again.

Timeform 1-2-3:
1. Carrickboy
2. Made In Time
3. Rougham

Timeform View: Carrickboy would have made it 2 on the bounce but for a late mistake at Ayr, and he makes most appeal here, although Made In Time caught the eye travelling strongly at Cheltenham last time, and should offer some resistance. Rougham could be dangerous if allowed an easy lead.

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