A competitive nine-runner handicap hurdle where several arrive with something to prove, but Le Diablo sets the standard after an encouraging return to form at Wexford earlier this month. John Patrick Ryan's five-year-old, a winner at Clonmel in April, looked back on track when finishing second last time and now returns to a similar trip on good ground. With his stable continuing in excellent form and a first-time tongue-tie applied, he looks the one they all have to beat.
Bhean Saibhre is capable of making things interesting if able to bounce back. A course-and-distance winner who has mixed Flat and hurdle campaigns effectively in the past, her recent efforts have been disappointing, but a valuable 7lb claim eases her burden and a return to Ballinrobe could spark a revival.
The unexposed Houndsworth appeals as a potential value alternative. His wide-margin Cork handicap success in April suggested he could progress beyond his current rating, and his latest novice hurdle run is easier to forgive. Back in handicap company on his preferred ground, he's capable of getting involved if rediscovering that level.
Max Meridius has maintained his fitness on the Flat and remains relatively lightly raced over hurdles. His Leopardstown runs should have sharpened him up, and a return to obstacles could see further improvement. He's another with solid each-way credentials.
The dark horse is Doctor Confusion. Henry de Bromhead's gelding has been absent for almost a year following a disappointing handicap debut, but he showed enough promise in maiden hurdles to suggest there is more ability than his form figures indicate. If returning in peak condition, he wouldn't be a surprise package.
The remainder all have questions to answer. Marlpark and Valsorpresa have bits of form that would give them place claims but need to bounce back from below-par efforts, while At The Wings and handicap debutante Ballinvasas Best require significant improvement to trouble the principals.
With no abundance of natural front-runners, the pace may be steady early before the race develops into a tactical sprint. That should suit those racing prominently, particularly Le Diablo, whose recent consistency and favourable conditions make him the one to beat.
Verdict: Le Diablo looks the most solid option and is taken to record his second hurdle success of the season. Houndsworth rates the main value at bigger odds, while Bhean Saibhre can outrun her price if rediscovering her earlier-season form.
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