In the Phoenix Security Novices’ Handicap Chase (1.30) at Newcastle, Mysteree proved no match for Askamore Darsi and Lovely Job at Doncaster last month, when his jumping rather went to pieces in the closing stages but, with the winner following up in a better race, off a 5lb higher mark, at Sedgefield on Saturday, he may be able to concede weight to three chasing debutantes. It’s worth noting that Golans Choice and The Orange Rogue both won in the point-to-point sphere, but Mysteree can put his experience of regulation fences to good use.
In the Homecare Plus Novices’ Chase (2.35), Pain Au Chocolat won a couple of times over hurdles for Alan King last season and got off the mark over fences for new trainer Dan Skelton at the second time of asking at Haydock in December. His 1¼-length defeat of the 137-rated Aso on that occasion was a smart effort and, with 15lb and upwards in hand of his rivals according to official ratings, he cannot be opposed.
Selections: Newcastle 1.30 Mysteree, Newcastle 2.35 Pain Au Chocolat, 1-point Win Double
