SANDOWN PARK 14:25

All 7 ran. Hurdles: 9. Race Distance Adjustment: +40 yds

Time: 5m 17s Closing Sectional: (6.05f): 95.2s (100.9%)

Overrounds: Industry SP 115%, Betfair SP 101.4%

This looked a competitive renewal of this Grade 2 novice, but it was rather unsatisfactory in event, the second, who seemed the least likely winner beforehand, and third clear for much of the way, only the winner, who raced third, able to get in a blow at them, the form probably a little below standard for the race.

ENRILO (FR) bounced back to form and then some, Cobden back in the saddle, looking a smart prospect, for all that he was better placed than most; in touch, jumped fluently, travelled well, shaken up entering straight, good progress approaching 2 out, led last, kept on well, ridden out; he's an obvious candidate for the Challow Hurdle, though hasn't raced left-handed since winning a bumper at Worcester on debut.

HOUSE ISLAND (IRE) excelled himself in this stronger company, for all that he looked a bit quirky, having the run of the race but not giving in easily after losing the lead; led, went in snatches, ridden straight, not fluent last, headed, stuck to task.

HAPPYGOLUCKY (IRE) the one runner that had had the chance to perform at this level, reproduced that previous effort, though ideally positioned and seemingly beaten fair and square, though he may have more to offer as his stamina is further tested; close up, pressed leader home turn, ridden before 2 out, outpaced soon after, kept on run-in.

OFALLTHEGINJOINTS (IRE) was found out in better company, his jumping not really good enough; soon steadied, not always fluent, travelled well, ridden home turn, mistake 2 out, one paced; he's more a chaser than a hurdler on looks.

EMMAS JOY (IRE) well backed up in grade, looked to have form as good as any of her rivals and seemed sure to be suited by the longer trip, but was disappointing, perhaps this coming a bit quick after Warwick, difficult to come from the rear of the field as well; in rear, pushed along after 3 out, left behind entering straight; may yet do better.

OVERTHETOP (IRE) was found out in better company, lacking maturity, getting rather worked up at the start; held up, not settle fully, ridden before straight, weakened 2 out; will benefit from a return to calmer waters and remains with potential.

UP THE STRAIGHT (IRE) attracted support but found this too competitive at such an early stage of his career, not ideally positioned either; in rear, pushed along 3 out, left behind soon after; may still do better.