Wolverhampton (AW) 7:45 Verdict

Niffler's form figures 890111 show a horse rapidly progressing and now on a three-race winning streak, clearly building momentum at exactly the right time. Last run just 13 days ago keeps him fresh and sharp, and Mark Prescott is a master of placing improving stayers at this type of low-key AW handicap to nick another win before a rise. Luke Morris riding for the yard adds continuity and stable confidence. At OR 61 he looks competitive against this weak field, and the trajectory of his form (beating rivals with increasing authority) suggests he's better than his current mark. The 2m trip on AW should suit a stamina-laden stayer bred by Isfahan out of a Dansili mare, both stout influences. Rivals like Hellion have had a break (73 days) and inconsistent-looking form (33-0), Shopaholic is finishing without winning recently, Billy Bathgate is an ageing 10-year-old with modest assessment, Wedonttellthetruth has been well beaten in most starts with a long layoff, and Al's River is unproven with a wide draw and moderate assessment. Niffler stands out as the one in-form, race-fit, well-drawn (draw 4 is fine at 2m AW) type with a yard that specialises in exploiting sequences like this. He looks the strongest, most reliable option in a modest contest.