Ballyculla can down Eider Chase rivals, Zaidiyn to deliver when dropping down

A revised mark of 136 should not be beyond Ballyculla, especially as the son of Westerner remains unexposed and open to further progression after just seven starts over the larger obstacles.

Connections have also resisted the temptation to run him since Bangor and kept him fresh for this With the 4m trip holding no fears and ground conditions ideal, Ballyculla looks weighted to take all the beating.

Zaidiyn can cash-in on class drop

In the 2m handicap hurdle (14.20), Zaidiyn can take advantage of a drop in class to get back to winning ways.

The Brian Ellison trained gelding has run really well to finish placed in three of his last four starts, and caught the eye in the last of those at Musselburgh when fourth to Shrewd in the Listed class 1 Scottish County Hurdle.

After being held-up well off the pace, Zaidiyn made stealthy headway three from home and stayed on strongly after a mistake at the last to be beaten just three lengths.

The six-year-old would have finished much closer but for the final flight blunder, and it was an effort which suggested his time was near.

Zaidiyn is able to race in this lower grade class 2 contest off just 1lb higher, and that gives him major claims at the weights in what is a far less competitive affair lacking any real strength in depth.

Selections

13.50: Seeyouatmidnight
14.20: Zaidiyn (NB)
14.50: Ballyculla (NAP)
15.25: Bun Doran
16.00: Knocklayde Sno Cat
16.35: Final Assault
17.05: Shambougg

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