02 February 2024 , 18:20
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Get into Cruise control for Musselburgh’s Scottish Cheltenham Trials meeting.
The bet365 Edinburgh National is run over a marathon trip just shy of 4m and that is ideal for NO CRUISE YET (2.15).
He finished an excellent third behind star stayer Kitty’s Light in the Edier Chase at Newcastle last season when the stiff finish probably exaggerated his beaten distance.
His first two starts of this season were solid efforts and the blinkers that replaced his usual cheekpieces might have been to blame for his slightly below-par effort at Catterick last month.
Sam England, his trainer, has swapped back the headgear and he must have a decent chance if he gets into a nice rhythm in a prominent position. Have 1pt each-way at 18-1. Sky Bet is paying out on five places.
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Sandown’s card is as equally competitive as the Scottish fare and BANGERS AND CASH (3.45) is likely to enjoy the track in the Virgin Bet Master Handicap Chase.
He’s won his last three runs on right-handed courses and he’s nicely treated on last season’s progressive form.
After a slow start to this term, he took a big step in the right direction when third behind Surrey Quest in the Mandarin Chase at Newbury over Christmas.
That came on softer ground than he cares for and he’ll be suited better by today’s conditions.
With his trainer Ben Pauling and jockey Ben Jones combining to win fives races in the last ten days, he looks to have plenty in his favour. Have 2pts each-way at 11-1. Several firms are going four places.
Harry Derham is another trainer who has his team in sparkling form. He’s had eight winners already this year from just 18 runners as he continues the impressive start to his career.
SCAMALLACH LIATH (3.10) joined Derham when Oliver Sherwood quit training to become his assistant.
He beat subsequent winner Seefin on his yard debut over 3m at Ascot in November and he ran a cracker when running progressive Top Cloud to a head in a hot race at the same track just before Christmas.
After just six starts he is still improving. Have 1pt each-way at 8-1. A few bookies are going five places.