This was a decent event of its type which was run at a sound gallop and, despite the early departure of prolific winning pointer Irilut, the form looks solid with the first two in the betting coming clear on the run-in.

DROMBEAG, last seen finishing third under today's rider in the National Hunt Chase at Cheltenham two years ago, got his career in this sphere off to a perfect start with a workmanlike success. He was full of running prior to a serious error at the penultimate fence, so deserves credit for recovering as he did, and then showing his class to get on top of the runner-up close home. The return to a softer surface in the future should prove to his advantage, he clearly stays very well and must rate an above-average recruit to the hunterchase ranks. Providing his next intended assignment goes to according plan, he should head for the Foxhunter Chase at Cheltenham and at Aintree with a leading chance.

Beauchamp Oracle was still upsides the first two prior to losing any chance with a final-fence blunder and posted a solid effort in defeat. He helps set the level of this form and should improve a touch for the outing.

Kerstino Two was ridden with more restraint than has often been the case in the past, and may well have been better served by more prominent tactics, as he stays well and found just the same pace when it really mattered. He can find easier opportunities.

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