Timeform Notebook: Land a bet with Lodge

There have been a few examples of horses producing improved efforts this year having left the Ferdy Murphy yard and we feel that Kellystown Lad, who finished third at Chepstow on his first outing for Tom George, may be capable of securing victory in the not too distant future. Having survived a bad mistake at the fifth flight, Paddy Brennan took his time before asking his mount to make progress exiting the back straight and, although getting outpaced, he eventually finished with a flourish, coming home a promising third. He appears to be fairly treated over both hurdles and fences and there should be plenty of opportunities for him in the coming weeks.

Always well regarded by his trainer Emma Lavelle, Highland Lodge made a seamless transition to chasing, scoring at the first attempt with consummate ease at Towcester. Useful as a hurdler, Highland Lodge always appealed as the type who would be capable of making an impact over fences and his proven ability to handle testing conditions should prove to be an asset over the winter. He is likely to be aimed at some valuable prizes, with a Newbury novice chase at the Hennessy meeting mooted as a possible target, and he is an exciting young prospect.

The Jeremy Scott-trained Master Benjamin caught the eye at Ffos Las on Sunday, ending up a distant third in a two-mile novices' hurdle. It is significant that he managed to finish in the frame as, having finished fourth on his only other start over hurdles, Master Benjamin now qualifies for handicaps; it would be a surprise were he not capable of making an impact in that sphere considering the promise he has shown. He hasn't been ridden to best effect in either of his start over hurdles and it is expected that his opening handicap mark will underestimate the true extent of his ability.

Runners Debrief:

Simply Ned was the only Notebook representative in action last week but unfortunately he was disappointing, fading in the closing stages at Musselburgh having travelled reasonably well for most of the contest. The fact that he found so little off the bridle was disconcerting to say the least and, although well handicapped, he could well be the sort that needs everything to fall right and as such isn't one to persevere with unless conditions seem firmly in his favour.

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