Despite there being just the four runners, this is an interesting contest in which Back Nine is selected ahead of First Love. Back Nine scooted to victory in the Royal Artillery Gold Cup last time and a key element to his chances could be the four pounds he receives from First Love, which could be crucial on the prevailing going as there is not too much to choose between them on form. Exit Swinger was rated in the 140s four years ago, but he is nowhere near as good as that these days, while Rustic John has a good bit to find based on the form book. All of which returns us to Back Nine, who likes it here and is the selection.
First Love 4-7fav (12-4) Tracked leader and close up until 6th, ridden and no impression and lost 2nd 2 out, stayed on at same pace after, 4th of 6, 3l behind Balinova (12-1) at Sandown 2m 4f hts chs (6) sft in Feb.
Back Nine (IRE) 8-11fav (11-7) Close up, went 2nd 8th, upsides 3 out, led soon after, soon in command, won at Sandown 3m amt chs (3) sft in Feb beating Whitenzo (12-10) by 21l, 7 ran.
Exit Swinger (FR) 8-1 (12-0) Led, headed 2 out, soon weakened, 3rd of 6, 21l behind Deckie (11-9) at Fontwell 3m 2f hts chs (4) sft in Feb.
Rustic John 16-1 (11-11) Led until 5th, left in lead next, joined 2 out, headed approaching last, weakened, 4th of 7, 8l behind Asthefellowsaid (12-1) at Folkestone 2m 5f mdn hts chs (6) hvy in Feb.
