13:00 Ascot

Sizeable Sam did impress getting on top late at Wincanton last month but he was all out at the line and a further 3lb rise might hand the initiative to FIFTY BALL (best price 15/8) here. The latter has some really strong form in the book and he left behind his run in the Betfair Hurdle to chase home a rejuvenated West To The Bridge at Sandown last time. That horse won again last week to complete a four-timer so there doesn’t look anything wrong with that form. He is off the same mark this afternoon and everything points towards a big run. Saint Sonnet was disappointing over fences last season but back over hurdles he did bounce back to form when second to Orbys Legend back in December. If he runs to that sort of level again here that should see him competitive at least. Kilganer Queen is clearly out of her depth.
 

15:26 Limerick

This looks a straight shootout to me and I’m keen to side with LIFETIME AMBITION (best price 13/8) for Jessie Harrington. I’ve always thought a fair bit of this horse and it was good to see him right back to form when beaten just three-quarters of a length at Navan last time. He is unexposed stepping up to 3 miles here and I think he is going to serve it up to Egality Mans. The latter represents powerful connections and jumped better to win easily at Wexford last time. I’m still not entirely convinced though and if errors do creep back in he could definitely be vulnerable in the closing stages here. Darrens Hope is a decent yardstick but she might always be struggling against the front pair in here. Fancy Foundations has been freshened up and is another one that might get competitive but likely only in terms of a place.