Richard Birch's play of the day at Carlisle

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Cascade Hall

The general consensus after Cascade Hall had routed three rivals at Ayr on his reappearance this month was that he was immensely flattered.

Most seemed to think that Lauren Young had stolen the race from the front – Cascade Hall was 25 lengths clear during most of it – a view which the stewards also appeared to hold as they interviewed the other three jockeys afterwards.

Let’s hope the bookmakers believe Cascade Hall wasn’t full value for an eased-down ten-length success, as I fancy him strongly to follow up in the 1m6f handicap (3.30) at Carlisle.

Almost all Jim Goldie’s runners have needed their first outing this spring, yet Cascade Hall didn’t need to come off the bridle to win.

It can be argued he will have improved considerably for the outing, and few can doubt he remains well handicapped on his best form despite a 6lb rise.

Cascade Hall, who competes off a mark of 56, was beaten a head by Marbuzet at Ayr last May off 9lb higher and carries just 7st 13lb when his rider’s claim is taken into consideration.

Tupero, who chased him home at Ayr a fortnight ago, came out two nights later and bolted up at Redcar.

By no means just a front-runner, it wouldn’t bother me if Cascade Hall didn’t lead this time, but I expect the end product to be the same – a visit to the winner’s enclosure. Lump on.