16:05 exeter Friday 9th January 2026

As often is the case this looks a deep contest here at Exeter. BLACK Set Weights AN D'OROUX (1) makes plenty of appeal on breeding representing the in-form stable of Ben Pauling. One to keep on side. EASTERN FIRE (4) made a promising debut at Uttoxeter eight weeks ago. Could be open to any amount of improvement on this second start. Player. I'M WIDE AWAKE (8) would be a rare jumpers flat winner for a stable who enjoy winners here. Showing above average ability on two starts to date and rates a major contender. Note the betting for a number of well-bred newcomers from powerful stables including BOLD STEP (2) and LE COLD GREY (10).