It was such a shame to see AUTHORISED SPEED come down at Ascot as he was in the process of a sparkling chase debut. He was still moving strongly when departing four out and connections were left with a case of 'what might have been' on the day. He is said to have come out that race well though and if his confidence hasn't been knocked he could quickly get back on track here. The danger is likely Oxygen who has taken well to fences making it 2-2 over C&D last month but is 6lb higher.

This race has been won by some very smart horses down the years and it looks a decent renewal again but FIREFOX stands out. He has some strong form in bumpers most notably having beaten Ile Atlantique at Fairyhouse and made an impressive debut over hurdles at that venue last month readily seeing off Ballyburn. That rival has bolted up since to frank the form and he should improve tons from that initial effort and be hard to beat. Ile Atlantique was impressive at Gowran and is the obvious danger.