2.40 Boylesports Faugheen Novice Chase (Grade 1) 2m 3f 160yds

Farouk D’Alene: Beat a subsequent Cheltenham Festival winner in a Grade 2 hurdle at this track last December. Missed the remainder of the campaign but made a winning debut over fences at Navan on his return to action earlier this month.

Had some decent prospects in arrears on that occasion, so clearly retains ability.

Fire Attack: Hasn’t always turned up and run his race but has a high level of ability when producing his very best. Couldn’t have been more impressive on his chasing debut at Wexford, despite the fact he was entitled to beat some lesser rivals in an ordinary affair.

If he were to be on a going day, then he is the one most likely to cause an upset.

Gabynako: Undoubtedly the one to beat, having run to a high standard when second in the Drinmore. Travelled like the best horse in that race and arguably would have won but for a bad mistake at the last fence.

He kept on in determined fashion all the way to the line and would be gaining deserved compensation should he come home in front here.

Lieutenant Command: Made a winning debut over fences at Fairyhouse last month but overall form suggests he will need to improve to get involved.

Does at least have previous form at this venue, having won his bumper here back in 2019.

Lifetime Ambition: Well behind Gabynako when fourth in the Drinmore last time, so has work to do in order to reverse those places. Had been impressive at Down Royal on his seasonal debut but will need to improve if he is to make his presence felt in this stronger company.

Master McShee: Had some excellent form in novice hurdles around this time last year before struggling in Grade 1 class at Leopardstown.

Failed to fire in two subsequent starts but caught the eye staying on nicely behind Bob Olinger at Gowran Park on his chasing debut.

Vanillier: Behind Lifetime Ambition on his debut at Down Royal but easily won his latest start in Grade 2 class at Punchestown. Was easily the best of these over hurdles but has to be a slight concern that he might find this trip an insufficient test of stamina.

Connections will be hoping the rain comes in the run up to this race.

Global Equity: Finished behind two of these rivals in the Drinmore last time and looks up against it at these weights. Tough, honest mare who always gives of her best but will need a career best if she is to get involved.

Verdict

Farouk D’Alene has to enter calculations as the most unexposed horse in the field. He has shown a high level of ability to date and could be open to more improvement than his rivals.

Having said that, Gabynako, sets a very decent standard and was unlucky not to win a Grade 1 on his latest start.

Fire Attack is an interesting each-way alternative at double figure digits.