1st February 2017

Yet again the FA Cup produced its shocks with both non League clubs Lincoln and Sutton reaching the 5th round and last 16 in the tournament. They have both been rewarded with ties against Premier League opposition the former away to Burnley and the latter at home to the Arsenal.

There are possibilities that the Sutton game could be moved to the Emirates so the non league team could have a massive pay day in front of a crowd of 60,000 but they are favouring a move to Crystal Palaces ground which is only a few miles from Sutton.

Personally I would love to see it played at there home Gander Green Lane and see what Sanchez and Ozil make of it.

It was very sad last Saturday to see the death of Many Clouds at Cheltenham after he collapsed when beating Thistlecrack in a battle up the hill to the line. He was a wonderful horse winning the Hennessy and the Grand National during his career. In the words of ITV presenter Oli Bell it’s a day we all want to forget but a superb horse we will all remember.

Last weeks Howies Hottie was a non runner so lets see if we can find one that actually goes to post. I’m taking a stab at Burtonwood in the 7.00 Newcastle who showed a bit more last time when finishing 4th. This was a decent horse back in the day when with Richard Fahey and hopefully off a reduced competitive mark he can go close.

HOT HANDICAPPERS

ARTIFICIAL SURFACES

Top Offer trainer P.Morris - Ran well after a break and should be fitter next time out.

General Hazzard trainer M.Bell - The gelding is well handicapped however he does not seem to stay 12 furlongs so look out for him over shorter.

JUMPERS

Be My Vinnie trainer E.O Connell - Stayed on nicely last time and one to look out for over in Ireland.

Cole Harden trainer W,Greatrex - Ran 2nd in the mud at Cheltenham and must have chances of regaining the stayers hurdle crown at the festival on better ground.

Back next Wednesday be lucky.

Howard Davis-Shaw.

CLICK HERE For Howard's Eye-Catchers!