Timeform UK SmartPlays: Thursday December 19

Our first SmartPlay runs in the 22-furlong novices' handicap chase (13:10) as we side with last-time-out winner Faith Keeper. Faith Keeper showed only modest form over hurdles but, in keeping with his pedigree and physique, he improved for the switch to fences, easily winning on his chase debut at Huntingdon last week. Faith Keeper has a 7-lb penalty for that success but he has a promising 5-lb claimer booked to help offset the burden and is still capable of better in this sphere; he should win again.

Smart Exit has been given a big chance by the assessor and he can land the extended three-mile handicap chase (14:10). Renee Robeson's gelding was admittedly disappointing at Huntingdon last time, but it is possible that the extreme trip (30 furlongs) stretched his stamina and a 4 lb drop in the weights for that performance leaves him looking attractively treated. Smart Exit has just had the three starts over fences so has the scope to do better, particularly from this sort of mark, and is worth backing this afternoon. 

Carli King has been found a good opportunity on his handicap debut (15:10) and he should be difficult to beat. A winning pointer, Carli King has faced stiff tasks on all three starts under Rules, running in novice company against some useful prospects, but he has hinted at possessing ability and an opening mark of 98 looks lenient. Carli King should appreciate this marked dropped in grade, facing some exposed rivals with plenty of questions to answer, and it would be little surprise were he capable of producing improved form.

Timeform UK SmartPlays:
All at Towcester

Back Faith Keeper @ 2.1211/10 in the 13:10
Back Smart Exit @ 5.14/1 in the 14:10
Back Carli King 2.6213/8 in the 15:10