left in lead briefly after 1st, chased leader, ridden approaching 2 out, soon weakened
held up towards rear, headway 5th, ridden to lead 2 out, soon headed, no extra flat
held up, ridden and headway approaching 2 out, no impression after
took keen hold, clear when badly blundered, unseated rider 1st
led after 1st, ridden and headed when hit 2 out, no extra last
always behind
in touch, headway to go 2nd approaching 2 out, led soon after, clear last
soon chasing leaders, ridden approaching 2 out, soon weakened
mid-division, behind after 5th
An ordinary way to open the card and this looks to be a good opportunity for Zibeline to continue his learning curve over hurdles - with Prize Ring narrowly preferred over timber debutante Petrula, who should benefit greatly from the experience today. The fact that Tony McCoy also switches allegiances from Day Du Roy is another plus point for Zibeline, who is likely to be made more use of today. The six-year-old was a little free over course and distance when he made his debut in the winter code last month and was also a bit sloppy at some of his hurdles. However, Brian Ellison saw plenty to work with after the race and it would be no surprise to see a more polished display today. Liberty Seeker is another who comes here as a newcomer to hurdles but a literal reading of his flat ratings leaves him with plenty to find with the likes of Zibeline and he is best watched today.
