This is a poor Class 6 and there is no point dressing it up as anything else. In races like this, proven track form and a workable setup matter more than trying to get clever.
Auspicious looks the one.
He won over this course and distance in September and his return run here 29 days ago was better than the finishing position suggests. He was slowly away, had to make up ground, and travelled into the race before fading late. That was his first run for five months, so there is every chance he comes on for it. In a race lacking depth, that makes him the standout.
The pace angle matters too. HRB has this down as a weak shape, with no obvious front runner and very little early pressure expected. Timeform make the same point and specifically note that the likely steady tempo should suit Auspicious. In these tactical Newcastle sprints, you want a horse that has already shown he can handle the track and can travel into the race when it matters. He ticks both boxes.
Container Express is the obvious danger. He is another C&D winner and ran well when third here last time. The problem is that he is starting to look like a horse who finds one or two too good. He should go well again, but he does not appeal as the one to trust most for the win.
Ganthorpe has claims on recent form and HRB flags him as the strongest late finisher in the field. That gives him a squeak, but a steadily-run 6f is not always the place to side with a closer. He may be doing his best work after the race has already been decided.
There are a few unexposed types in here, notably Love Love Love, but at some point potential has to turn into evidence. Right now, Auspicious has the stronger case.
This is not a race to overcomplicate. He has the course form, he shaped well on his comeback, and he should be sharper now.
Verdict: Auspicious to win. Container Express the main danger.