A compact but competitive field of five goes to post for this Class 3 novice hurdle, with Edelak looking to resume his upward trajectory after an unfortunate mishap over course and distance last weekend.

Dan Skelton’s progressive four-year-old had rattled off three consecutive victories before falling three out when firmly in command of a handicap hurdle here seven days ago. That mistake is easily forgiven given the authority with which he had travelled, and a return to novice company on a track and surface that clearly suit him makes him the one they all have to beat. With no obvious rival for the lead, he could once again enjoy an uncontested advantage from the front.

The chief threat may come from stablemate Loriko, another Skelton runner who has steadily improved throughout the spring. A dual winner over hurdles, he arrives after a solid runner-up effort at Market Rasen yesterday and has the form to make life difficult for the favourite if turning out again. The quick turnaround is the obvious question, but on ability alone he commands plenty of respect.

Obsessedwithyou adds further quality to the contest. Jamie Snowden’s mare has enjoyed an excellent campaign over fences, recording a pair of victories before making a successful return to hurdling at Hexham last month. She is proven on fast ground, receives weight from the principals and is unlikely to be far away if reproducing her recent level of form.

The remaining pair appear to face a much stiffer assignment. Angel Of My Dreams has yet to show enough over hurdles despite recent wind surgery, while He’s Tailor Made was well beaten on his hurdling debut and needs to find significant improvement.

With conditions likely to favour positive tactics and the race lacking much early pace, the contest appears tailor-made for Edelak, who can put last week’s fall behind him and continue his progression. Loriko rates the main danger if backing up quickly, while Obsessedwithyou looks the most likely to capitalise should the two market leaders fail to deliver.

Prediction:

1. Edelak
2. Loriko
3. Obsessedwithyou