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Just two runners for Paul on Saturday as he gears up to Aintree
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Beau Balko will enjoy the ground and has decent chance
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Slower ground will also souit Banteer in the bumper
Decent chance on ground that he enjoys
He's progressive and has done well this season, winning twice and the form of his last victory in a handicap has since been boosted. He escapes a penalty as that was in a race for conditional jockeys and Angus Cheleda takes off a handy 5lbs.
Beau Balko needs to finish in the first four in this race to qualify for a £100,000 novice handicap hurdle final on the last day of the season at Sandown. He must have a decent chance on soft ground he enjoys.
Has ability and will run well
He made an encouraging debut in a bumper at Exeter in February, staying on strongly all the way to the line when finishing second to a useful type. The experience will not be lost on Banteer who is really a three miler for the future and will keep galloping all day.
Slower ground at Stratford will suit Banteer who has a nice bit of ability and will run well.
Best Chance: Beau Balko - 14.17.
"He continues to please and has solid claims back in novice company."