NOEL WILSON'S decision to take a chance and throw Stallone (3.00) in the deep end at Sedgefield is worth a second look.

Even though the stocky gelding has yet to jump a fence in public, Wilson has opted to try Stallone in the BP Cats Novices' Handicap Chase, rather than wait for an overtly easier opportunity once the National Hunt season gets in full swing during late September.

The eight-year-old failed to score over hurdles, but, he has proved in the past to be a fair tool on the Flat, and there's no denying Stallone has the size and scope to make a fair fist of the bigger obstacles.

Patrick Haslam's efforts to win a race of any description with Dalida (2.30) might bare fruit when the filly lines up for the John Wade Selling Handicap Hurdle.

The Middleham handler possesses the canny knack of turning a sow's ear into a silk purse, a comment that would certainly apply to Dalida (2.30) seeing as she's achieved precious little to date.

Never one to give up easily, Haslam gave the selection a spin on the level at Thirsk recently, a sensible pipe-opener doubtless intended to pep up Dalida in readiness for today's lowly affair.

Haslam's neighbour, George Moore, might also pocket a few quid if Iron Express (4.00) returns to his best for the Paddock Bookmakers Handicap Chase.

Genial George generally gives his horses a long summer break and Iron Express was no exception. The nine-year-old naturally needed his first two runs following a few weeks out at grass, but there were signs at Southwell nine days ago that he was regaining full fitness.

Although the City of Ripon Stakes is a pretty wide-open affair, Nevada Desert (3.10) warrants a small each-way bet at a venue that suits his run-style.

Such is the headstrong nature of Nevada Desert it's no use attempting to restrain him if he's keen and wanting to get on with job. With this view in mind I only hope jockey Dean McKeown doesn't drop anchor, rather than let Richard Whitaker's charge do his own thing up front.

As yesterday's 15-2 winning nap Granston demonstrated, proven course and distance form counts.

Using a similar formula, Imperial Sword (3.40) seems sure to give his owners good reason to believe they could get their hands on the Steve Nesbitt Challenge Trophy.

David Barron's speedy two-year-old won in convincing fashion over track and trip in May, and despite not being seen out since, it must be significant that the stable's runners are currently emerging from a spell in the doldrums.

Leicester's low-grade Banded fixture doesn't exactly set the pulse racing, but that shouldn't stop punters taking an interest in Short Chorus (4.50), fancied to land the five-furlong sprint.

John Balding's Bawtry-based string are firing on all cylinders and Short Chorus is poised to join the party with the help of leading apprentice rider, Greg Fairley, taking a valuable 7lbs off his back.

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