Not a strong contest as only a couple of these had shown the form over hurdles usually required to win a novice event and few of the newcomers to jumping had particularly attractive credentials either, and only half a dozen still held realistic chances with a circuit still to go. So exactly what BARFLEUR achieved should not be over-stated but this was certainly an improvement on what she had been showing over shorter trips and on softer ground, leading from three out, clear when hitting the final flight and driven out to hold on. She is open to further improvement in these conditions, and has the look of a mare who should make the grade over fences when the time comes.

Oscar d'Hyrome was another who seemed to be suited by the step up in trip -indeed the way he kept on again to take second on the run-in suggested an even stiffer test would have been ideal - he has given trouble at the start before but jumped off fine this time. He is up to winning in modest company, as is Stagecoach Opal who confirmed the impression from his jumping debut that he has ability over hurdles and who came well clear of the rest.

Mister Completely ran well for a fair way but seemed not to get home - though he may have been feeling the effects of his exertions on the Flat three days earlier. Sydney Greenstreet became disappointing latterly in bumpers and showed little sign of a revival on this hurdling debut.

Trainer Richard Ford reported that Sydney Greenstreet bled from the nose.

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