2:30 Lingfield Tips

Venetia Williams has been having a quiet time by her high standards so far this year, but she could have a good day here today, including a win for chase debutante Jeu D'Opale. The front-running seven-year-old finished fifth in a Ludlow hurdle on his seasonal debut seventeen days ago, which should have put him right for today.

Jaipaletemps is a top win chance after a solid 3rd at Haydock off a mark of 107. Current handicap 106 feels spot on. Dropping in class here, with a 25% distance strike rate, and Pipe and Corcoran have a 22% combo lately, with the tongue strap aiding focus. I expect him to stalk the leaders, travel powerfully, and grind clear late.

Recorded some fair novice/handicap hurdle form last season and shaped well on his chase bow at Huntingdon last month. Although ultimately well beaten, the Jonjo yard had to be shut down, but they are running super well at present and I’m expecting this six-year-old to come on a ton. Outstanding chance judged on the pick of his earlier form and he really shouldn’t be the rag of this field.

I thought he displayed promise on his chase/seasonal debut when fourth at Wetherby, and any improvement should see him in the mix. A 2 lb drop looks fair, and this race is just a lot more open than the current betting suggests.

Despite there being only six runners, Bet365 are paying EW 1-2-3 and I just can't see Diplomatic Ash finding three too good in this race, making him a solid EW bet.