SKIPPERS BRIG made a very impressive return to action after nineteen months off the track at Carlisle last time out and can make it two from two over fences at the main expense of Role On. A real soft ground performer, Skippers Brig was held-up last time before steadily working his way into contention. Taking into consideration that Len Lungo's horses do generally need a run, it makes his win all the more creditable and chasing was always going to be his game. Role On showed good battling qualities to win over two miles at this venue three weeks ago. This step up in trip will suit him and although ratings suggests he achieved much the same as Skippers Brig last time, Len Lungo's charges proven recent form over this trip makes him the choice. Hockenheim was disappointing during the second half of last season when reverted to chasing but showed some promise last time when finishing second here over an extended three mile trip. Skippers Brig is given the nomination to land it.
Role On (IRE) 9-2 (10-13) Chased leaders, ridden to lead 2 out, held on gamely from last, won at Carlisle 2m beg chs (4) hvy beating Stumped (11-2) by a nk, 11 ran.
Skippers Brig (IRE) 4-1 (11-2) Held up, headway when blundered 4 out, soon ridden, driven to lead after last, won at Carlisle 2m 5f nov chs (3) hvy beating Andrew Nick (11-8) by 2l, 10 ran.
Aston Lad 20-1 (10-0) Held up, headway 7th, ridden after 3 out, soon weakened, 7th of 9, 27l behind Nycteos (10-10) at Kempton 2m 5f hcp hdl (2) sft in Jan.
Hockenheim (FR) 9-2 (10-12) Led, headed when blundered last, no extra, 2nd of 8, 9l behind Tot O'Whiskey (10-12) at Carlisle 3m nov chs (3) hvy in Oct.
Sierra Victor (IRE) 100-1 (10-9) Behind, never on terms, 7th of 10, well behind Skippers Brig (11-2) at Carlisle 2m 5f nov chs (3) hvy.
Silver By Nature 33-1 (11-2) Led to 2nd, tracked leader, led 10th, headed before 4 out, ridden to lead again before 2 out, headed last, no extra flat, 2nd of 8, 1 1/2l behind Kealshore Boy (11-2) at Newcastle 2m 4f beg chs (4) gs.
