D & J Glazing Handicap Hurdle

Point winner; 0-4 in bumpers; improved for a tongue-tie over hurdles until dropping out very tamely in Navan Grade 3; the form of his second at Galway reads well; not beaten far on handicap debut at Leopardstown; hard to dismiss.

Won Navan handicap hurdle (2m4f, soft) in January of last year off 102 before following up in Fairyhouse novice (2m, heavy); moderate seasonal return at Punchestown but pair of runner-up finishes followed at 2m4f/3m; fair fourth at Naas (15.5f) on latest; solid chance in first-time blinkers.

Last year's winner off 1lb lower but hasn't won since; below his best chasing this season, albeit set some stiff tasks; not discounted back hurdling but veteran will need to improve significantly.

Gained second hurdles win at Clonmel (19.5f, good) last May off 101; went close there the following month when 1.25l fourth; was last seen finishing second at Clonmel again in October; best form is on a sounder surface and might need the run.

Seven-time winner over hurdles/fences and hasn't been out of the first three in his last six starts around here; three wins over fences last year; disappointing favourite over hurdles at Cork but returns from a break racing from 14lb lower hurdles mark; should go well.