Monbeg Dude caught the eye on his debut over hurdles and is strongly fancied to open his account at the second time of asking in the 3.40 at Uttoxeter.
Michael Scudamore's Irish point winner looked a nice type when finishing runner-up in a bumper here last December and confirmed thet he had enough ability to win a race of this nature when a staying on to finish a never nearer fourth to Teshali on his first try over the obstacles over course and distance three weeks ago.
Although beaten just under 8 lengths he would have finished closer but for a mistake at the third last and was not knocked about once it was clear he would not be winning.
That run was his first for 218 days, and with normal improvement he must go close.
His handler has certainly found him a weka looking contest, as on paper he only has Mistoffelees and Paddy The Hare to worry about, and at the 9/2 on offer he certainly looks the best value of the trio.
Recommended bet: 3pts win Monbeg Dude (9/2 Boylesports, Paddy Power - BOG, Sportingbet, Stan James)
