Dual course winner Rising Force was only just beaten in a better race at Kempton last month, while Artificer came closest to winning over this C&D the following day. Both are respected but it may be worth siding with BALLYBAYMOONSHINER, who is just 1lb above his last winning mark and ran well to finish fourth last month on his second start back from a lengthy absence.[David Bellingham]
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Both wins have come here, the latest over this trip in December; has continued to run well and was beaten a short head in a much better race at Kempton (1m, Polytrack) last time; off only 1lb higher, on the shortlist.
Made her debut in only October and has not threatened in five starts over 7f-1m4f on Polytrack (well backed penultimate outing); blinkers will need to make a big difference.
Handy sort whose form has been patchy since winning over C&D in October; still 5lb higher than for that win and he needs to do better than in his last two outings now back from two months off.
Both wins have come over 7f on Polytrack, including here from 1lb lower a year ago; having his second start back from 210 days off when fourth of 14 at Kempton (1m, Polytrack) last month and that form has worked out quite well; respected.
Eight-race maiden who came within a neck of getting off the mark over C&D last month (fourth has won since); only 1lb higher and ought to go well again.
Last eight starts have come in 0-50 classified events, winning two including a narrow success at Wolverhampton (8.6f, Tapeta) last month; the race probably wasn't run to suit him back there a fortnight ago, but more will be needed back in a handicap.
Narrowly landed a similar contest over C&D in October and added another success at Southwell (1m, Tapeta) in December; not the most consistent, but capable of playing a part if putting his best foot forward.
Just 1-23 but in good form in 0-50 classified events for Lawrence Mullaney this year (72212); makes his debut for a new yard (same owner) and although this will be tougher back in a handicap, he can't be dismissed.