TimeformBlog

Blackstairmountain is a Grade 1 novice winner over hurdles who achieved same feat over fences at Leopardstown in December. Below form both starts since and stamina could easily be stretched given the conditions.

First Lieutenant was a dual Grade 1 winner over hurdles and better than ever when second in RSA
Chase at Cheltenham last time, clear of the rest. Good form claims but drops a full 1m in trip here which is a worry.

Lucky William is a triple winner over fences this term and took form to new level when scoring in 17f handicap at Fairyhouse last time. This doesn't look a particularly strong affair and he's respected.

Menorah was verging on high-class over hurdles and ran up to a similar level when taking Grade 1 novice over 2½m at Aintree last time. Still has room for improvement in jumping department but a major player.

Nearest The Pin is still a maiden over fences, but has shown a useful level of form and had excuses when only sixth at Navan last time. Best form has come away from soft/heavy ground, though.

Regal d'Estruval is a fluent jumper who opened account over fences when making all in 2m Tramore maiden in October, but has failed to build on that since and looks out of his depth here.

Kumbeshwar has shown useful form all 7 starts over fences, successful at Hereford and Plumpton and in frame all other outings, including big-field handicaps at Cheltenham and Aintree. Can't be ruled out.

Timeform 1-2-3:
1. Lucky William
2. Menorah
3. First Lieutenant

Timeform View: The pair who set the standard both have questions to answer, First Lieutenant dropped markedly in trip and Menorah still prone to the odd mistake, also unproven on ground this testing. That could leave the way clear for a surprise and Lucky William fits the bill after an improved effort last time.

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