Warwick: Neptune Investment Management Novices’ Hurdle (15.00)

Mullins duo strong contenders

Champion Irish trainer Willie Mullins is represented by Open Eagle and Thomas Hobson, and both look big players.

Open Eagle was a useful sort on the level, and after opening his account over hurdles at the second time of asking at Fairyhouse ran well to chase home Altior in a decent class 2 contest at Kempton last month.

Although no match for the easy 13 length winner, Open Eagle stuck to the task well to be beaten 13 lengths and the Altior is a very exciting prospect and a leading contender for the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle.

That gives the form a solid look in the context of this contest, but I am not convinced that Open Eagle has the same scope as Born Survivor.

Thomas Honson has won two of his four starts over the obstacles, and there was lots to like about his most recent success at Punchestown.

The six-year-old made all, and despite a couple of sloppy jumps found plenty to assert on the run-in and beat the useful Jetstream Jack by 2 3/4 lengths.

Thomas Hobson is clearly going the right way and should have more to offer, and of the Mullins pair he may well emerge as the biggest danger to the selection.

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Coral’s top tip: Born Survivor created a huge impression when scoring on debut over hurdles and looks well worth a wager to fend off strong Irish challenge and maintain his unbeaten record.