Very First Time was only beaten a neck at Newcastle last time and the first two were clear of a previous winner in third. But he isn't certain to be suited by this step up in trip and may have to give best to MCGREGOR'S COTTAGE. Malcolm Jefferson's gelding was always going well when scoring by 10 lengths over track and trip last month and should have more to offer. Patience Tony hinted at ability on his debut at Newcastle but the mare Lady Broome is best watched on her first start.
Mcgregor's Cottage (IRE) 6-4fav (10-9) Held up towards rear, headway over 7f out, went 2nd over 4f out, led over 1f out, soon clear, won at Sedgefield 2m 1f (6) hvy in Dec beating Moonshine Ridge (11-2) by 10l, 7 ran.
Patience Tony (IRE) 8-1 (11-0) Chased leaders, weakened over 2f out, 5th of 8, 19l behind Betameche (11-0) at Newcastle 2m (6) hvy in Dec.
Lady Broome Erhaab M out of Minnesinger.
Very First Time 10-1 (10-12) Mid-division, tracked leaders halfway, went 2nd over 3f out, led well over 2f out, ridden and headed narrowly over 1f out, kept on and every chance final furlong, just held, 2nd of 9, nk behind Red Indian (10-12) at Newcastle 1m 7f (6) hvy in Dec.
