ASCOT 13:55

Non Runners: GUNNER FIFTEEN (IRE). Hurdles: 9.

Time: 3m 51.5s

Overrounds: Industry SP 107%, Betfair SP 99.6%

A small field, but a fascinating race all the same, though the outcome was frustrating, things only just taking shape when Emerging Talent fell 2 out, both he and the winner still to play their hand.

L'AMI SERGE (IRE) was left with a straightforward task once one of his rivals fell 2 out, though there was a lot to like about the way he went about things; waited with, travelled strongly, led after 2 out, quickened clear, hit last, won easily; remains open to improvement and clearly capable of taking high rank among the British 2m novices this season.

KILLULTAGH VIC (IRE) down markedly in trip and up in grade, didn't come on as expected for his hurdling debut, the pace he set nowhere near searching enough to trouble a much speedier type late on; dictated, headed after 2 out, badly outpaced; will be suited by a return to 2½m+; remains with potential.

EMERGING TALENT (IRE) was in the process of running well when he came down, going as well as the winner, though whether he would have quickened so decisively is another matter; tracked pace, not settle fully, going well when fell heavily 2 out; remains open to improvement.