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Mercurial Hitman could answer his critics
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Hereford scorer can follow up for in-form team
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Ascot, 14.20 - Back Hitman each-way @ 15/28.50
Supporting Hitman in any race isn't without peril, but the veteran remains highly capable when the mood takes him and he is worth supporting to go one better than last year in this race.
The 10-year-old arrived at the final fence in full Hitman mode 12 months ago, travelling strongly and looking to have the race within his grasp.
Unfortunately for connections, he wasn't as fluent as the winner Terresita at the final obstacle, allowing Lucy Wadham's mare to power clear for a decisive victory.
It still remained a sound effort in defeat from Hitman with the handicappers rating it a top five career effort and the Falco gelding has at least proved this term he remains capable of finishing the job done courtesy of a smooth two-length Old Roan Chase success on his seasonal comeback.
Hitman had twice been runner-up previously in that Aintree feature before finally winning it and he has a live chance of repeating that trick here with the drying ground likely to play to his strengths.
Back Hitman, E/W, in 14:20 Ascot
Ascot, 14.53 - Back Came From Nowhere @ 5/23.50
Trainer Jeremy Scott was reportedly on the verge of quitting racing prior to Golden Ace's joyous Champion Hurdle success and it's safe to say there has been quite a transformation in the likeable handler's fortunes since then.
Twenty six winners in the last 12 months, including nine from his last 41 runners have cemented Scott's resurgence and Came From Nowhere could hand the Somerset maestro another tidy Saturday winner in this handicap.
I was at Wincanton on Thursday in the rain to witness a similar type in Champagne Chic landed a handicap hurdle for the Scott and Williams combination and the duo teamed up to collect a sizeable prize at Hereford with the selection before Christmas.
Injury had stymied the seven-year-old's progression prior to his comeback this season, but he is making up for lost time this season and he looked like he had jumped in on the home turn under Williams last time.
A 7lb rise may not be enough to stop him here if the tongue tie has the same effect and although he has been well found in the market, anything around 5/23.50 appeals.
Back Came From Nowhere to Win 14:53 Ascot