Didn't fail for stamina upped to a stayers' trip for the first time in two years when second in a 3m hurdle here latest (good to soft), albeit beaten about 6l; 6lb higher back over fences, but nevertheless still a chance on his peak chasing form of 2023-24.
Not bred for fences, but would have gone close on Boxing Day's Wincanton chase debut but for a final-fence unseat (2m4f, good to soft); untried at 3m, but has occasionally hinted at a need for it; chance.
Late mistakes when beaten on both chase starts for Warren Greatrex in spring 2024, albeit granted conditions quicker than this slow-ground Irish point winner might prefer; long absence to defy on stable debut.
No better for the 279-day break when registering yet another pulling up last month, despite having his preferred 3m on slow ground; 9lb below his one British winning mark now but hard to warm to; blinkers return.
Had Shot Boii comfortably held when falling two out at Wincanton last month (3m1f, soft); moderate effort since served as a fresh reminder that he needs at least a sight of the lead to be able to function.
Just 1-17 over fences, and last time's 5l second at Wincanton (3m1f, soft; kept on but never threatened) owed something to the late exit of Anytrixwilldo; mark unmoved but Rian Corcoran claiming 2lb fewer this time.
Can't judge too harshly on last month's pulling up in a Uttoxeter mudbath (only two of ten finished), but two efforts before that fall well short of the required here; blinkers need to prove transformative.
1/5 Odds Place 1,2,3
( Pool guide displayed could change before the race starts & should be used as a guide only )
