Several interesting contenders and top of the list is the George Boughey-trained BAD HABITS, who was a promising third in October on his first start and now goes handicapping in first-time cheekpieces having been gelded. Sweet Fantastic was a close third on last month's handicap debut at Lingfield and may be the chief danger ahead of Montrachet Girl on her first run for Roger Varian. Panama Black is a possible improver.[Ben Hutton]
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Ran well in C&D maiden on third start and when a close third on handicap debut at Lingfield (7f, Polytrack) last month; trainer won this last year and a leading contender in first-time cheekpieces.
All four starts for Eve Johnson Houghton were over 6f; good second at Newbury last July on second outing; two lesser runs followed but she returns from a break with her new trainer among the winners; could be on a handy opening mark if tapping back into the Newbury promise.
Won at Brighton (6f, turf) in October on his second start; however, he's been unable to progress on his three outings since and needs to raise his game on this second handicap outing.
Well-beaten eighth on his last two starts in the autumn but before those he went close on his debut at Chepstow (7f) in August and he's of interest on that form; returns from a break and a market move would be interesting on this handicap debut.
Close third in C&D novice in October on third start; hasn't continued her progressive momentum in handicaps but has produced fair performances each time and could take a step forward at some stage for her top yard.
Ran well when second in Lingfield novice (6f, turf) last July on his fourth start; absent since and he's tackling a new trip for his handicap debut, but the form of the stable is a plus and he's not discounted.
Made debut in September and has produced fair performances on two of his three starts (7f/1m); improvement needed on handicap debut but there's potential in his pedigree; he's one to watch in the betting.
Went close on handicap debut at Newcastle (7f) last month and fair third in Southwell novice (6f) next time; not ruled out but he needs to bounce back from his disappointing latest performance in a Southwell handicap (6f).
Improved upon first two runs (both 6f) when fourth in a maiden at Wolverhampton (7f, Tapeta) last month; that run can be upgraded as he was wide early and he's one to consider in first-time cheekpieces on handicap debut.
Hasn't kicked on from his promising debut third at Redcar (6f) in October but he's been gelded since his last run in November and has first-time headgear for this handicap debut; trainer in fine form and he could play a major role, especially if he's strong in the betting.
She's run some good races in defeat and the hood that was worn when tailed off at Lingfield 12 days ago is now removed; however, she's now 0-9 and is probably vulnerable once more.
Won with something to spare on handicap debut at Wolverhampton (7f, Tapeta) in November and fair fourth there (7f) three weeks ago, following a 9lb rise; he needs to prove his current mark isn't beyond him but further improvement can't be ruled out.
1/5 Odds Place 1,2,3
( Pool guide displayed could change before the race starts & should be used as a guide only )
