TWO STARS built on three solid sprint handicap runs, including a pair of runner-up efforts, prior to an excellent 5f success at Curragh on soft ground.

Travelling sweetly into that race, the Starspangledbanner gelding saw off his rivals with the minimum amount of fuss, when asked to put the race to bed. He appears leniently treated, with a 5lb penalty here, and can continue his upward trajectory.

Last season’s winner, RUBAUD, ought to have too much class for his two rivals, following an effortless Listed Hurdle victory at Kempton last month. The only worry would be if Aspire Tower takes the selection on from the front, but with Harry Cobden in the saddle, we can expect him to have all bases covered from a tactical perspective.

Rubaud crucially thrives on quick ground, which cannot be said for the third runner in the contest, Brentford Hope, who may find it tough to quicken when asked.

The lightly raced GUARD THE MOON can complete a hat-trick of wins, following back-to-back successes in quick ground hurdle events. His reappearance success came on handicap debut at Warwick, where he and the second pulled well clear of the remainder.

That runner-up has subsequently boosted the form with a fine second in a stronger Aintree race. A 6lb rise may prove lenient for this progressive type.

KING TURGEON has the profile of a type to do well in races over the Grand National fences. He is a bold front-runner, who attacks his fences with authority and keeps up a strong gallop.

Despite an in-and-out season last term, he bounced back to his best at Chepstow on reappearance – following wind surgery – displaying improved form. A 9lb rise may appear harsh but with the potential of improvement from this six-year-old, a bold showing is expected, especially given his prominent racing style.

LORD ACCORD must hold solid credentials in Wincanton’s feature event today. The son of Yeats has back form in this race – notably a fine second behind Frodon two years ago – and is 8lb below that mark.

He also arrives in scintillating form, following back-to-back small field handicap chase successes on quick ground. The selection stays well and is one who may prove hard to catch, if allowed an easy lead.

MINSTREL KNIGHT holds each-way claims in a wide-open November Handicap to conclude the turf season. The Advertise gelding continues to go from strength to strength, notching up three wins this term, including back-to-back victories on deep ground.

Those wins came in competitive races at Haydock and York, which suggests he could still have further potential, despite a 6lb rise in the weights. It would be folly to dismiss his credentials for a trainer who arrives in good form.