TimeformBlog

Alpha One ran well when runner-up in 2 maiden chases here (19f) late last year. Confidence looked affected by previous fall when below form month, but the one to beat on chase form if bouncing back.

Earl Grez took well to fences initially, including placed over C&D, but lost way at end of last season and, despite being fit from points, no show on last month's return. Change of headgear tried now.

Foot The Bill is a point winner who ran best race over hurdles in 2½m novice on heavy ground at Carlisle a year ago. Shown very little 2 starts over fences this season, though, and others preferred.

Franks A Million is a bumper winner who has shown promise when making frame both starts in novice hurdles this winter, runner-up here (19f) last time. Obvious contender if taking to this new discipline.

Noble Schloar is a dual bumper winner who again made frame in novice hurdle on return from a year off here in January. Well below that when last of 12 latest, and needs to bounce back on chase debut.

Penton Hook was modest on Flat and has offered nothing for this yard over hurdles or on 2 chase starts, including when attracting some support at long odds last time. Makes little appeal.

Timeform 1-2-3:
1. Franks a Million
2. Alpha One
3. Noble Scholar

Timeform View: Alpha One sets the standard on chase form, but he must prove that his confidence remains intact after a below-par effort last time and it might be worth taking him on with chasing newcomer Franks A Million, who has shown fair form when making the frame on both starts over hurdles.

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