4:10 Newcastle Tips

After showing nothing to date, Velvet Vulcan tried the longer distance of 2m 4f and was only just run out of things in a 19-runner handicap. That was under today's claimer and the best form shown so far. A repeat of that level of effort should see them go one better.

Feel like Snow Dragon has been threatening to come good for a good while now, and surely this represents a decent opportunity to get the head in front.

Despite being unplaced in 11 races under rules from 16-20.5f 10 of those over hurdles ran ok on chase debut at Musselburgh over 20.5f finishing 3rd of 7 26 days ago & is running off a very low weight with claimer taking a further 3Lb off . Expect 1 or 2 better but has chance of making the frame .

The Sandy Forster-trained Rock N Roll Champ has yet to hit the frame in any of his eleven starts under rules, nine of which have come over timber. His best run to date was last time out at Carlisle, where he finished fourth over two miles one furlong off a lb higher mark. The extra three furlongs here could suit him. I think he has an each-way chance.

Breadlabane Lass has stronger claims than some mid-priced horses in this race, so is worth an each-way poke, as she may be capable of picking some of them off here. Best run of the season in a respectable big-field handicap at Ayr last time out, and this looks a slightly easier assignment for her.