keen early, led 3rd, blundered and headed 15th, weakened 4 out
held up in touch, ridden 15th, chased winner approaching 4 out, one pace and unable to challenge from 3 out
led to 3rd, chased leader, led again 15th, ridden after 2 out, stayed on well
held up in touch, mistake 3rd, ridden approaching 12th, weakened next
Just four runners line up here and we take Pharpost to turn the tables on Guard Duty, with his stable in top form now. Pharpost was beaten three lengths by Guard Duty when they met at Taunton in December, but that was his first outing since October. He is now weighted to make a race of it and is the choice, especially as he is much more experienced over the larger obstacles than Martin Pipe's charge. Guard Duty really struggled when well beaten at Fontwell last time and cannot be backed with confidence to uphold the Taunton form. In addition, Pharpost will be straighter after being give a run-out over hurdles at Market Rasen a fortnight ago. That was his first appearance since not impressing with his jumping behind Rodalko over the course and distance before Christmas, and he is sure to have been well schooled at home in anticipation of his return to the larger obstacles. The Rebel Lady is a regular sight at the Shropshire track but is out of form, while Home Made has stamina limitations but has a slight squeak on a line through Rodalko. The safest option though is to stick with Pharpost.
