Ballycool a big player granted clean round

Ballycool has struggled with his jumping on his last two outings, unseating at Cartmel in August and again looking not fluent when a disappointing third in a Sedgefield handicap over 2m31/2f last time.

However, if he can get his fencing into gear then he could be dangerous, as his last win came off only a 3lb lower mark at this course in August and he is well treated on his best form. He won a Uttoxeter handicap chase in February last year off a mark 4lb higher than today's.

Lucinda Russell's team is in good form and today's ground should be suitable. He has plenty going for him with Derek Fox, who is his regular rider and has been in the saddle for all his wins under rules, back in the plate. It is worth taking the 8-1 generally on offer.