disputed lead until after 4 out, soon ridden, beaten when hit next
disputed lead, took definite advantage after 4 out, in command from next, easily
Duc De Regniere gets the confident vote in this match to beat Starzaan. The selection hails from the in form Nicky Henderson yard won well last time when beating Nikola and he is taken to win this under conditions that suit before holding his own at the Cheltenham Festival in the Sun Alliance Chase. Starzaan beat Possol and was a fair hurdler at his best but on offical ratings he has a bit to find with the selection Duc De Regniere.
Duc De Regniere (FR) 2-7fav (11-0) With leader, led 8th, blundered 11th, pushed clear flat, won at Lingfield 2m 4f beg chs (4) sft in Jan beating Nikola (11-0) by 6l, 6 ran.
Starzaan (IRE) 4-1 (10-12) Held up behind leaders, led approaching 3 out, clear when mistake 2 out, easily, won at Wincanton 2m 5f nov chs (3) sft in Jan beating Possol (10-13) by 11l, 5 ran.
