disputing 2nd from 3rd, not fluent 17th, hit 4 out, chasing winner when blundered 3 out, not recover
jumped well, led 3rd, made rest, left 5l clear 3 out, unchallenged after
keen hold, mostly disputing 2nd from 3rd, left 5 lengths 2nd 3 out, no impression next , tired jump last
led 2nd until mistake and pulled up after next
Bubble Boy is capable on his day but Brendan Powell's gelding would probably want a faster surface to show his best form and a chance is taken with Maletton, with One Cornetto rated the best of the remainder. The selection has hardly set the world alight since joining the yard of Venetia Williams but the chances are that the six-year-old may be better than he has shown so far and, with the yard in fine form right now, he looks worth a bet on his return. Kim Bailey's Kelantan also has a long absence to overcome and, while that should not be a problem, the form of stable has to be of some concern. One Cornetto should appreciate this drop in class and has to be respected but a chance is taken with Maletton in the hope that he shows improved form today.
Maletton (FR) 14-1 (11-10) Led to 2nd, tracked leader, led before 8th, headed next, weakened 3 out, 6th of 12, 37l behind Alright Now M'Lad (11-9) at Plumpton 2m 5f hcp hdl 0-120 (3) gs in Feb.
Bubble Boy (IRE) 7-2 (10-8) Tracked leader, hit 1st, ridden 16th and lost place, soon tailed off, 3rd of 4, well behind Tana River (11-10) at Wincanton 3m 3f hcp chs 0-135 (3) gd in Nov.
One Cornetto (IRE) 16-1 (11-5) Chased leaders until 7th, ridden after next, weakened 4 out, 7th of 8, 21l behind Bishop's Bridge (11-8) at Fontwell 2m 2f hcp chs 0-115 (4) gd in Nov.
Kelantan 7-2jt-fav (10-8) Led, narrowly headed after 3 out, blundered 2 out, driven and every chance last, not quicken flat, 3rd of 6, 2l behind Native Ivy (11-9) at Sandown 3m hcp chs 0-130 (C) gs in Nov '05.
