led, narrowly headed 4th, led again 6th, in command after 3 out easily
reluctant to race, blundered 1st and soon tracked leader, led 4th to 6th, stayed chasing winner, mistake 9th, every chance when blundered 4 out, weakened and beaten when blundered 2
soon outpaced and well in rear, continued tailed off
keen, tracked leading pair, still close enough 8th, pulled up after 4 out, dismounted
Former top-class hurdler Marble Arch makes his fencing bow here and might have too much speed for Lirfox, with Duke of Buckingham anchored by his penalty. Marble Arch gained his biggest success over timber when capturing the Ladbroke Handicap Hurdle at Ascot in December 2001, and went on to be runner-up in the Champion Hurdle the following March. Hugh Morrison's gelding has not raced since finishing fourth at Newmarket in July, but is sure to have been well schooled and is an exciting recruit to fencing. Lirfox appeared far too headstrong when pitched into top company on arrival from France but settled much better when put over fences, landing three on the bounce in summer. She was actually restrained too much when beaten at Perth in June, and if they can find the right balance, she certainly has the class. Duke of Buckingham never ran over hurdles, but has been in winning form over fences. He added to his tally with a walkover at Folkestone, and meets two tough rivals here. An interesting race can go to Marble Arch.
