14:25 Taunton

I thought DR T J ECKLEBURG would be favourite for this so I was pleasantly surprised to see the early odds. He has progressed nicely recently winning 2 of his last 4 starts over fences. He actually beat the favourite Keep Running at Ludlow on penultimate start and I think he can confirm that form here. I know he has been beaten since but he pulled 20 lengths clear from the rest with the winner last time and certainly wasn’t disgraced. He could still have more to offer and looks the one to be on especially at 9/4. Keep Running likely has more to come too so is still the danger but just looks short enough. Extraordinary Man is also in good form so isn’t ruled out either.
 

15:55 Newcastle

I’m expecting the step back up to 7f on handicap debut to see GREENWICH get off the mark. This son of No Nay Never continued his race-by-race progression when last seen back in September to finish second at Redcar. He was heavily backed that day but just couldn’t get to the winner who had it all go his way out in front making all the running. They pulled 5 lengths clear from the rest so it was still an encouraging run despite the disappointment on the day. An opening mark of 60 should be workable and I can see him taking the beating. Van Zant was always holding on to prevail at Wolverhampton last month and looks the danger now he has his head in front.