disputed lead until 5th, soon 6 lengths behind winner, pushed along 7th, closed 3 out until 2 out, no chance with winner
disputed lead until led 5th, soon 6 lengths clear, reduced lead 3 out, increased lead again next, comfortable
chased leading pair, soon behind, finished in own time
DILIGENT has improved out of all recognition since last seen over hurdles, winning five times over fences this year. He’ll be fancied to open his account over the smaller obstacles getting 16lb, taking into account riders’ claims, from the hat-trick seeking Every Breakin Wave, who looks the only conceivable danger.
Every Breakin Wave (IRE) 4-1 (11-6) Made all, stepped at 3 out, ridden home turn, stayed on gamely, unchallenged, won at Stratford 2m 6f (3) gd in Aug beating Van Meegeren (11-0) by 1/2l, 4 ran.
Diligent (FR) 5-4jfav (11-7) Led until 2nd, chased winner until 3 out, weakened after, last of 3, 16 1/2l behind Oscar Rose (11-9) at Perth 2m 4f hcp (2) gd in Sep.
Oscars Reign (IRE) 14-1 (10-10) Pressed leader, led 9f out, headed 2f out, weakened inside final furlong, 5th of 8, 19l behind Lady Excalibur (10-3) at Stratford 2m (4) gd in Jul.
Southfield Lily 100-1 (10-9) Held up on outside, keen early, closed after 2nd, not fluent 4th, soon lost place, remote 5th and no chance from 7th, 6th of 9, dist behind Sopran Thor (11-2) at Warwick 2m 3f mdn (4) gd in Apr.