Riggs is an interesting runner off a light weight of 10-4 trained by the Dan Skelton team.  He was a little unfortunate last season when falling at the second last in a hurdle race during the Midlands national meeting. Sent off a 4/7f that day he was kept tight approaching the second last flight and just got it wrong. That race was over almost three miles so today’s extended three miles is fine. Riggs warmed up for today’s race with a solid fifth at Aintree when staying on at the line over 2m4f. The handicapper has kindly dropped him a pound with Riggs a consistent performer. The older horses Stoney Mountain and Ask Dillon both have a chance but it is the younger generation who dominate this valuable staying handicap.

Flight Deck brings strong recent form into this race. I felt he won easier than the official winning margin of a neck at Wetherby when holding Teescomponents Lads. The runner up has franked the form twice subsequently even if beaten five lengths by Bass Rock. Over this extended three miles I am leaving Bass Rock aside and backing Flight Deck. He has won on soft ground however it will be nearer good to soft tomorrow which is a positive. The first time cheekpieces helped at Wetherby and are on again today. Flight Deck is progressing and can go higher in the ratings following three wins from only 7 starts over hurdles.

Haydock 2:25

0.5 Point Each Way Riggs 7/1 Skybet & William Hill, both paying 6 Places.