On 2/9 (dirt trial 1200m: 5-6-9), the horse faded in the middle stages and trailed at the rear. This is the horse’s debut run this season, having undergone one barrier trial with insufficient progress shown. A second turf trial over 1400m saw a two-pound weight reduction; the group time was respectable, allowing it to settle in a good position tracking the leaders. Drawing an inside barrier provides a favourable situation. Matthew Chadwick takes the ride and demonstrates some understanding of the horse’s capabilities; trainer and jockey are well aligned and anticipate an unexpected performance.