NEWCASTLE 16:20

All 4 ran. Fences: 14. Race Distance Adjustment: +29 yds

Time: 5m 45.4s Closing Sectional: (2.25f): 49.8s (77.2%)

Overrounds: Industry SP 110%, Betfair SP 100.3%

A race that changed complexion quite dramatically late on, Special Catch going through much of it like the best horse at the weights but he almost certainly did too much too soon, emptying in the closing stages with De Vous A Moi taking advantage, the bare form uncertain to prove reliable.

DE VOUS A MOI (FR) was strong in the betting and followed up from last time after 4 months off, better than ever, though he was somewhat fortunate, unable to go with the Special Catch but picking up the pieces when that one folded; chased leader, ridden ninth, stayed on to lead approaching 2 out, ridden out.

SPECIAL CATCH (IRE) shaped as if back in form, like the best horse at the weights for much of the contest but overdoing it in front, falling into a hole in the closing stages; led, jumped well in main and travelled strongly, drew clear ninth, reduced advantage when hit 3 out, shaken up soon after, headed approaching next and weakened; fairly low mileage, particularly over fences, and will be of interest again next time.

EDMUND (IRE) after just 7 days off, took step back in right direction though this isn't solid form, difficult to gauge quite how much ability he retains; in touch, not fluent seventh, pushed along ninth, one paced and never a threat.

CARALINE (FR) easy to back, had winning run ended, running no sort of race, something presumably amiss for her to run so poorly; held up, jumped none too fluently and struggling eighth, pulled up soon after.