2:12 Haydock Tips

Four runs this winter for the 6yo this year, winning once ??' a 15-runner handicap ??' and two big runs in defeat in which the form has been given a nice boost since. Excuses last time out in a Grade 3 contest on heavy ground. Still on a handy mark and a strong jockey booking.

Took his chance in the County Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival last month but was well down the field, beaten 15 lengths. Eased in grade and down 2 pounds in the ratings, Toby McCain-Mitchell is back in the saddle today and is twice a winner in three rides on this 7-year-old. His 5-pound allowance looks useful here too.

Smart Decision looks an interesting each-way contender and could have been targeted at this race, given his earlier form this season. He has already recorded two wins this campaign ??' a novice success and a Class 4 handicap victory over 2m 2½f off 115 ??' showing clear progression earlier in the season. The standout piece of form came when finishing 2nd, beaten just a neck by Brentford Hope over course and distance off 120. That looks strong form, with Brentford Hope rated 136 over hurdles and subsequently finishing 3rd behind top-class performer The New Lion (rated 160). His runs since have been below that level, including a disappointing effort over 2m 5f, which appeared to stretch his stamina, and a recent run at Hexham on soft ground that may not have suited. Now eased to a mark of 119, with James Bowen booked and first-time cheekpieces applied, there are reasons to expect a bounce back. If he returns to the level of his earlier form, he looks capable of being competitive at an each-way price.