Verdict

WAITING PATIENTLY is the one to beat if coping with the testing ground and will likely to start a short price. He was beaten only a length on his recent hurdling bow over track and trip and that's easily the best form on offer. However, that's not saying much as the remainder have yet to record any worthwhile form with Wee Jock Elliot and Hattons Hill both beaten out of sight so far, though Ethan finished closer over today's trip at Kelso on his penultimate start.

Formwatch

Ethan (IRE) 33-1 (10-12) Chased leaders, hit 6th, weakened after 8th, struggling in 5th and no chance when mistake 2 out, weakened, 7th of 10, dist behind Western Miller (10-12) at Carlisle 2m 4f (4) gd in Oct.

Hattons Hill (IRE) 100-1 (10-12) Behind most of way, 8th of 14, dist behind Royal Vacation (10-12) at Wetherby 2m 4f (4) gs in Oct.

Waiting Patiently (IRE) 18-1 (11-0) Held up towards rear, headway 2 out, chased winner from last, kept on and held towards finish, 2nd of 11, 1l behind Nuts Well (11-0) at Hexham 2m mdn (5) gs in Nov.

Wee Jock Elliot 66-1 (10-12) Held up towards rear, pushed along halfway, weakened from 7th, 8th of 10, dist behind At The Doubble (10-12) at Carlisle 2m 4f (4) gd in Nov.