Verdict

KUDU COUNTRY never recovered from a blunder at the first fence in better company at Sandown last time. He had earlier finished runner-up to Desert Cry over course and distance and a repeat effort could see Tom Tate's charge get the better of main rival Kealigolane. The latter opened his account over fences at Carlisle earlier this month and should make another bold bid despite an 8lb rise. Houston Dynamo has won a novice chase and may figure on the back of a decent fifth at Musselburgh. He's preferred to the out of form pair Predateur and Bene Lad.

Formwatch

Kudu Country (IRE) 10-3 (11-2) Behind, mistakes throughout, pulled up before 5 out, in a race won by Eastlake (10-8) at Sandown 2m hcp chs 0-145 (2) hvy, 9 ran.

Kealigolane (IRE) 11-2 (11-0) Made all, ridden after last, kept on well, won at Carlisle 2m nov chs (3) hvy beating Vulcanite (11-7) by 4l, 4 ran.

Houston Dynimo (IRE) 20-1 (11-12) Held up towards rear, headway from 4 out, one pace and no impression, 5th of 10, 8l behind Swift Arrow (11-6) at Musselburgh 2m hcp chs 0-130 (3) gs in Dec.

Predateur (FR) 14-1 (10-10) In rear early, headway from 4 out, ridden in 4th entering straight, weakened, 7th of 10, 41l behind Smart Money (11-5) at Fairyhouse 2m hcp hdl 80-102 hvy.

Bene Lad (IRE) 4-1 (11-12) With leaders, mistake 2nd, mistake 6th, lost place after 7th, in rear 8th, tailed off, last of 6, 50l behind Sacre Toi (11-10) at Ayr 2m hcp ch 0-110 (4) hvy.