This proved quite a test for novices and, with only six managing to complete, the form is just modest. BALLYSHAN proved suited by the extreme stamina test and confirmed the promise he showed when placed on his three previous starts over hurdles. He looked set for a prolonged battle with Geordie Peacock at the top of the straight, but galloped on too strongly for that rival and was always holding the eventual runner-up. Clearly one to be with when the emphasis is on stamina, he was placed in an Irish point-to-point and should make a nice staying chaser in time.

Kildonnan was ridden more patiently than when a beaten favourite under similar conditions at Towcester on his previous start, and saw out his race well. He has a similar race in him.

Geordie Peacock, returning from a three-month break, would have found this a very different test to the bumpers he contested on his only two previous starts and ran very creditably in the circumstances. He looked likely to go close at the top of the straight, but, not surprisingly, failed to sustain his effort and should be a lot better for the experience.

Silent Dream showed up well for a long way and could be one to note when handicapped.

Love Of Classics failed to run to the level of form he had shown when second on his last three starts over hurdles, and the headgear may not have been as effective this time.

Alformasi offered promise over two and a half miles around here on his hurdling debut, but failed to confirm that running and was beaten a long way out. He can be given another chance.

*Alformasi was reportedly unsuited by the ground.

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