Timeform UK SmartPlays: Friday December 12

Hollow Blue Sky - 13:05 Cheltenham

Hollow Blue Sky was found out by a speedier test at this venue in November, but he posted a series of highly creditable efforts prior to that and makes plenty of appeal returned to this more suitable trip. Recent-winner Gallery Exhibition should also go well under his penalty, while Al Alfa is also feared if keeping the errors down.

Vintage Vinnie - 13:40 Cheltenham

Vintage Vinnie hasn't quite seen his race out over two and a half miles on his first two starts over hurdles and should be suited by the drop in trip. He gets the vote to make light of what looks a fair opening mark, possibly at the main expense of Nicky Henderson's Lough Kent, though Street Entertainer posted a decent effort in a stronger race than this here last time and should also be on the premises.

Big Easy - 15:15 Cheltenham

Big Easy has posted a pair of really solid runner-up efforts over hurdles since his victory in the Cesarewitch and can return to winning ways, though he certainly won't have things all his own way in a competitive heat, with progressive pair Ulzana's Raid and Guiding George a couple of big dangers.

Timeform UK SmartPlays
All at Cheltenham

Back Hollow Blue Sky @ 5.14/1 in the 13:05
Back Vintage Vinnie @ 5.24/1 in the 13:40
Back Big Easy @ 3.814/5 in the 15:15