keen, raced wide, held up, headway over 2f out, ridden and every chance over 1f out, weakened inside final furlong
tracked leaders, ridden 2f out, soon weakened
always prominent, led 1f out, ridden and ran on
with leader, led over 2f out, ridden and headed 1f out, eased when held near finish
held up, headway over 2f out, driven to take 2nd close home
towards rear, never nearer
The idea of saving Fiddlers Ford for a turf campaign has obviously been put on hold after his disqualification in a similar event at the end of last month and the son of Saddlers Wells should make a bold bid to put things right today. Amwell Brave has the assistance of Kieren Fallon and will no doubt be a popular alternative, but there is no reason why he should reverse placings with the selection and he is passed over today. It is also hard to see Champagne Shadow ridding himself of the maiden tag on what he has shown to date and the fitting of blinkers for the first time sets the alarm bells ringing for what is only his third start on these shores. In contrast to Zangeal - a 40,000gns purchase - who makes his debut for the Chris Wall yard today. As a half-brother to High Accolade, this trip should not be a problem for him and he is one to monitor for future engagements no matter what happens today. However, Fiddlers Ford was also expensive when he went through the sales ring and holds a valuable edge in terms of experience today. Jamie Spencer will be keen to put the record straight this afternoon and there will be no excuses if the partnership suffers defeat this time around.
