This was an ordinary race and the early gallop was slow. MENPHIS BEURY proved suited by the step up in trip and stayed on well, having jumped much better than on his previous start. He should progress, though this form is nothing special.

Benefit, penalised for his win at Fakenham last week, probably ran up to form on ground slower than is ideal for him.

Black Smoke could never land a blow, but the first four were well clear of Daguyda, who was very keen and made mistakes.