At Exeter tomorrow the Emma Lavelle trained Vagrant Emperor has been knocking on the door and should go close on the opener at 2.30, while in the 4.00 Pistol Desbois has ability if he can improve his jumping.
Turning to Newcastle Steady Tiger can follow up his win over course and distance last month in the 2.20 where Ockey De Neulliac might be the danger while Marleybow is my selection in the 3.20.
Elsewhere on the Newcastle card top weights Merrydown (4.20) and Nirvana Swing (4.50) both have each way chances. Vivona Hill looks a promising type and certainly one to keep tabs on for the future. He has to concede plenty of weight in the bumper at 5.20 but may well be up to the task.
Today’s Cheltenham hero, courtesy of Kate Trann, is the great Istabraq.
ahorse 