Which British-trained novice hurdler has the best chance at Cheltenham in March?

'There was more depth to the Challow'

Metier put in a big performance to land the Tolworth at Sandown on Saturday and, after an effort like that, connections have every right to plan for Cheltenham in March.

However, I just feel there was more depth to the Challow at Newbury on Tuesday and won so impressively by Bravemansgame.

He beat the 147-rated Star Gate by ten lengths, while Metier pulled 12 lengths clear of the 130-rated Shakem Up'Arry. On that evidence, I'd prefer the chances of the strong-galloping Bravemansgame in the Ballymore.

Clearly Metier is not slow but I would not rule out the Ballymore for him either, as he must have plenty of stamina to match his pace after Saturday's win on testing ground.
Lewis Porteous, reporter

'It is unusual for Fry to get carried away in such a manner'

No horse has impressed me more in the flesh this season than Metier, who left his normally laid back and measured trainer Harry Fry noticeably enthusiastic after winning at Ascot.

Animatedly using his hands, Fry described how impressed he had been with Metier's jumping when asked to pick up by jockey Sean Bowen. It is unusual for Fry to get carried away in such a manner.

Harry Fry: trainer was noticeably enthusiastic after Tolworth victor Metier's win at AscotCredit: Edward Whitaker

He was spot on with his assessment though, as Metier showed at Sandown with exquisite jumping, something he is able to blend with his Flat speed into a potent weapon.

So Metier for the Sky Bet Supreme Novices' Hurdle is Britain's best chance, but whether he is able to lay a glove on Ireland's Appreciate It is questionable.
Peter Scargill, reporter

'Metier was impressive but Ireland has a lot more strength in depth'

The two who I liked before Christmas were Bravemansgame for the Ballymore and Nassalam for the Triumph, and I'd still say one of those would be my pick to fly the flag for the home team in the novice division.

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Other than that, I think we're struggling and Ireland has a lot more strength in depth.

Metier was impressive at Sandown, but it was a weak Tolworth and the runner-up was beaten miles at last year's festival. The Challow, run at Newbury earlier in the week, was a better contest and Bravemansgame looks to have the tools to tackle the visitors in March.
James Hill, tipster

More Saturday reaction:

Harry Fry has Grade 1 star to enjoy as top novice Metier dazzles in Sandown mud

Members' Club: how previous winners of the Tolworth fared at Cheltenham in March

Sandy Thomson in dreamland after fairytale win for 'immense' Seeyouatmidnight

Doitforthevillage rolls back the years to regain winning thread on veterans' day

'That's what it's all about' – Simon Dow gets 2021 off to a flyer with treble

A Kim Muir squeak? Widger to target Treacysenniscorthy at major spring handicaps

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