Espoir D'Allen can climb to summit of juvenile hurdle division

Pilgrims Bay
Trainer: Neil Mulholland
5th, Newbury, December 2
The seven-year-old was a surprise 25-1 winner of the BetBright Handicap Chase last season. Although now higher in the ratings, he could pick up a big handicap this term, hopefully again at juicy odds. His ability to travel strongly on the bridle improves his chances of claiming more valuable prizes, as this means he is usually able to stay in contention until the business end of the race. You never know how much he is going to find for pressure, but when keeping his mind focused on the job he is capable of producing smart form.
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Master Of Irony
John Quinn
4th, Newbury, December 2
With a best Flat RPR of 96, this hurdler has a decent engine. The way he made up ground close home to finish a never-nearer fourth in this steadily run 2m½f handicap hurdle suggests he will be most effective when delivered late off a strong pace. Big fields improve his chances of a searching gallop.
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Mac N Cheese
Keith Dalgleish
Fell (seven out), Newcastle, December 2
If this novice chaser, who is a brother to 2015 Eider Chase winner Milborough, can brush up his jumping he should be soon be off the mark over fences. Previously at Ayr he was narrowly beaten despite making a number of novicey errors, and he was still going well in this 2m7½f handicap when exiting.
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