pulled early, held up in touch, ridden 3 out, soon weakened
held up in touch, mistake 4th and next, ridden 3 out, soon weakened
led after 1st, ridden and headed 2 out, led before last, headed close home, no extra
led to 1st, chased leaders, ridden 3 out, rallied and every chance last, ran on flat
held up in mid-division, headway after 3rd, challenged 3 out, weakened before 2 out
pulled hard behind leaders, ridden 4th, soon weakened
held up last, ridden 4th, soon weakened and pulled up before 2 out
held up mid-division, headway 4th, ridden to lead 2 out, edged left and headed last, not quickened flat
held up in touch, headway 3 out, hard ridden after 2 out, challenged last, ran on and led close home, all out
Three of the best conditionals around, Robby McNally, Tom Phelan and James Davies, should battle out the finish here. The latter rider, son of Hywel Davies, has impressed us with his determination in a finish, and he will do his utmost to ensure that Colnside Bonnie reaches the frame at least. Davies rode her for the first time at Wincanton recently, and it was all down to him that Brendan Powell's mare got back up to beat Wild Knight, with the fast ground having the desired effect. By coincidence, Robby McNally was also partnering Celtic Song for the first time when he too scored at Wincanton. Since that victory in October, connections have been waiting for similar conditions, and get them here. Will that absence count against him though. Martin Pipe's Linus is on a hat-trick after winning at Taunton and here at Exeter last time. That latest success was in what amounted to little more than a seller, and it remains to be seen whether he can handle more weight as the handicapper takes a grip. Tom Phelan rides for the first time, and will do well to master his two main rivals. Of the rest, Mantilla might get involved, but threw in the towel too easily for our liking in selling company on this track when fancied nine days ago. The selection is Colnside Bonnie.
