led, ridden 2f out, headed entering final furlong, stayed on and edged right close home
close up, went 2nd over 2f out, soon ridden and weakened final furlong
steadied start, held up, steady headway 2f out, shaken up to lead entering final furlong, soon ridden, put head in air, hung right and driven out
tracked leader until over 2f out, soon ridden and weakened
held up, ridden 2f out, no impression from over 1f out
Just the five runners but still not the easiest of races to solve. The maiden Double Mystery and Brighton nursery winner Landescent, who was well held at Wolverhampton on his most recent start two months ago both look to have a lot to do but a case can be made for each of the other three runners. Gerard Butler's horses always warrant respect here and, while Californian finally came good when landing a handicap over course and distance last time, he needs to improve to win this. More solid claims are held by Mick Channon's Arry Dash who scored in good fashion on his all-weather debut at Southwell at the beginning of the month. Entitled to improve again after just four starts, especially over the trip, he is interesting but narrow preference is for Devious Boy. Pat Haslam's gelding has never raced over further than seven furlongs before but, being by Dr Devious, he should appreciate the longer trip here. Entitled to strip fitter for a recent reappearance and for the trip, he can take advantage of the race conditions.
