tracked leader, led after 3 out, ridden clear from next, stayed on well
led, not fluent 3 out, soon headed and ridden, no impression on winner from next, stayed on same pace
chased leaders, lost touch 5th
always last, pecked 2nd, well behind from 5th
This looks a match in which THE ORGANIST (NAP) is narrowly preferred to Tara Flow in what is likely to produce a fascinating tactical battle. There's little to choose between the pair on the book and both handle the forecast conditions and turn up with strong form in the book when last seen. Oliver Sherwood's gelding does drop in trip so expect Leighton Aspell to look to maximise his partner's assured stamina. Hopefully, he'll repel the late thrust of Venetia Williams' course and distance winner. Appletree Lane and Stoical Patient look outclassed and are preferred in that order for third spot.
Tara Flow Evensfav (11-8) Chased leaders, led approaching 3 out, went left at 2 out, headed when carried right last, no impression towards finish, 2nd of 17, 1 1/4l behind Kings Bayonet (11-4) at Huntingdon 2m hcp (3) sft in Jan.
The Organist (IRE) 1-7fav (11-3) Made all, clear from 2 out, very easily, won at Fontwell 2m 3f (4) hvy in Dec beating Cassie (10-10) by 28l, 4 ran.
Appletree Lane 33-1 (10-10) In touch, ridden approaching 2 out, soon outpaced, 5th of 8, 18l behind Awesome Rosie (10-10) at Wincanton 1m 7f (4) sft in Dec.
Stoical Patient (IRE) 50-1 (10-12) Always behind, outpaced 3f out, 10th of 12, 16 1/4l behind Sister Sibyl (10-12) at Towcester 2m (6) sft in Dec.