NEWBURY 13:45

Non Runners: CHAMPAGNE CITY. Fences: 11. Race Distance Adjustment: +61 yds

Time: 4m 12.2s Closing Sectional: (3.05f): 47.5s (97%)

Overrounds: Industry SP 109%, Betfair SP 100.5%

A duel from 2 out that went the way of one who was perhaps slightly more toughened than a runner-up who probably remains the better long-term prospect, both of them well on the way to proving themselves smart novices all the same.

MOONLIGHTER had been much closer to the favourite in the market at Haydock off level weights and took a step forward as he got off the mark over fences in gritty fashion, very little wrong with his jumping this time; chased leader, close up home turn, every chance 2 out, jumped left last, edged ahead final 50 yds, just held on; remains capable of better, both over this trip or slightly further.

PRECIOUS CARGO (IRE) hadn't had to worry about Moonlighter at Haydock (that one out of the race early) and couldn't quite fend him off this time, though this first experience of a battle shouldn't be lost on him and he remains the better prospect of the pair; made running, reached for eighth, tackled 2 out, looked to be narrowly gaining the upper hand when not fluent last, edged out final 50 yds and just failed to get back up under hands and heels for the final 150 yds; remains capable of better.

VADO FORTE (FR) shaped as if still in good form without usual headgear but was ultimately quite readily seen off by the front pair in a far stronger race than last time; mid-field, in contention usual 4 out, left behind from 2 out.

CHAMPAGNE PLATINUM (IRE) again lacked conviction pitched into a handicap; in rear, jumped tentatively, lost touch slightly back straight and further ground early in straight, behind still last, late headway to close right up on the third; it wouldn't be the greatest surprise were the market to forewarn an improvement in technique at some stage.