25th October 2012

Another unfortunate day yesterday with another fall in Double Ross. Horatio Hornblower went too hard, but whether he would have given Fox Run a race is another matter. Our horse will certainly have come on for his run, you could see his jumping improve as the race went on, but both need to be followed for next time out. Onto today's selections.

17.00 Carlisle

No rocket science here, but this looks all set for SUPER DUTY. He came close to giving Simonsig a race at Aintree last year before blundering towards the end, and this race has been his target for some time. Staying up to two and half miles, this trip shouldn't be a problem as stamina is always a focus at Carlisle. Admittedly, his jumping is a slight concern, blundering that time against Simonsig and falling against Nuts N Bolts who reopposes, but as long as he stays on his feet, off level weights this time around, Donald McCain's horse should take all the beating. You can be sure his trainer will have focused on improving his jumping. 4/5 Blue Sq, 888Sport 1.85 Betfair

16.20 Thurles

Powerstation has been a star for connections, but in a race like today his years are surely going to catch up with him and preference is for one of the younger horses. The race includes several types who promised much and didn't perform. It's hard to remember that Bostons Angel won the RSA Chase 2 seasons ago based on his performances since, and at current prices I wouldn't put you off backing him each way. His last run will have continued his journey back to Grade 1 success, but until he's shown a little bit more he can't be backed for the win. Muirhead comes into the race as the highest rated and in good form, but I'm not sure if he's so much better than some of these that he can concede a penalty to victory. Whodyouthink is extremely inconsistent and again may struggle to win with a penalty. Shinrock Paddy looks extremely threatening, and returns to hurdles for the first time since last February. His recent run on the flat will have helped sharpen him up for this, and he looks set to go well, but at current prices, it's MOSSLEY who really stands out. Things haven't gone right for this son of Old Vic since he came second at Cheltenham in 2011's Albert Bartlett. He was over the top at Aintree after that and his chasing performances have been mixed. He was eased last time out so didn't have a hard race and that will have helped freshen him up like Shinrock Paddy. He undoubtedly possess ability over the smaller obstacles and rates a good each way bet. Western Leader is a previous Grade 2 winner over hurdles, but he'll need to improve to take this and show more than his recent pipe opener. It also doesn't help that his stable is in poor form. 12/1 Bet365, Paddy Power, 14.5 Betfair

Good luck!

The Horse Whisperer