Timeform UK SmartPlays: Tuesday December 30

Taunton 13:30 - Friendly Society

Friendly Society is well treated based on his form over fences, and he took a step back in the right direction when finishing runner-up over hurdles at Huntingdon earlier in the month, doing well in the circumstances having nearly fallen early on. That effort at Huntingdon was an encouraging performance and he should go close in this company if building on it. 

Taunton 14:30 - Allez Vic

Allez Vic arguably would have won at Chepstow on Welsh National Day had he been given a more pro-active ride, and this looks like a good opportunity for Evan Williams' charge to gain a deserved success. Allez Vic was wisely held up in the early stages at Chepstow as a strong gallop ensued, however his rider, Paul Moloney, seemed to overdo the waiting tactics and allowed Cogry to get first run on the approach to the final fence. Allez Vic wasn't quite able to overhaul the eventual winner, but he bolstered his reputation as an improving novice and he looks well handicapped. 

Taunton 15:30 - Howlongisafoot

Howlongisafoot shaped well in a competitive Cheltenham handicap hurdle in November and he wasted little time proving equally as adept over the larger obstacles when finishing runner-up at Sandown on his chasing bow. He remains unexposed in this sphere and potentially well handicapped. The step up in trip looks sure to suit, and ought to draw further improvement, so Howlongisafoot should put up a bold bid.

Timeform UK SmartPlays:
All at Taunton

Back Friendly Society in the 13:30 
Back Allez Vic in the 14:30 
Back Howlongisafoot in the 15:30