'He looks set to relish a stiffer test' - horses to note from last week's action

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Did well in the circumstances

Fivethousandtoone
Third, Newcastle, February 14

Looked weighted to run well, but completely blew the start and did well to finish as close as he did at the line. He's holding his form well and ought to get back to winning ways before long.

Watch the replay here

Great Universe
Fifth, Punchestown, February 19

This seven-year-old has twice shaped with promise in bumpers since moving to Ireland, on this occasion giving away ground at the start before working his way into the race behind some potentially smart performers.

He'll presumably go back hurdling soon and ought to benefit from longer trips.

Watch the replay here

Eyecatcher

Ivaldi
Fourth, Ascot, February 18

An early faller at Kempton on Boxing Day, he was anchored at the back of the field and again displayed his low head-carriage. Found himself with an awful lot of ground to make up.

He got nowhere near the first two, but finished to good effect and retains plenty of potential from a mark in the 120s.

Watch the replay here

Kansas Du Berlais
Second, Lingfield, February 14

Bounced back from a disappointing run on his British debut, finishing strongly to bustle up the winner close home having had more in front than behind turning for home.

Looks set to relish a stiffer test of stamina and can win a novice hurdle.

Watch the replay here

Sparks Fly
Fifth, Lingfield, February 17

Did best of those held up off the pace, finishing to good effect on what was her third start.

A half-sister to the Group 2-placed Caroline Dale who represented these same connections, she looks set to get a lowly mark for handicaps.

Watch the replay here

Sharp Power
Second, Kempton, February 15

Cost 85,000gns and showed up well on his debut, displaying good early speed from a wide draw and keeping on well to claim second. Trained by Richard Hughes, whose newcomers tend to come on for a run, he'll be of interest next time.

Watch the replay here

Promising

Mistral Milly
Fourth, Ascot February 18

She was the stable second string on her debut but made a most encouraging start, keeping on well from off the pace.

She is related to a useful hurdles winner for the yard and is likely to improve. Should be capable of winning a mares' bumper.

Watch the replay here

Easy Rider
Fourth, Sandown, February 16

Stable second string on this hurdling debut for Nicky Henderson, but showed up well for a long way in what was a strong-looking novice hurdle.

Very much the type to improve and can pick up an ordinary novice/maiden hurdle in the spring.

Watch the replay here

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