raced freely, led and soon clear, pushed along from 3f out, headed and not pace of winner inside final 2f, not quicken final furlong
in touch, hard ridden and close up from 3f out, stayed on same pace over 1f out
took keen hold, held up towards rear, smooth headway on bit to track leaders 3f out, led inside final 2f, driven and kept on final furlong
always prominent, close up 3f out, chased winner inside final 2f, kept on inside final furlong
took keen hold, held up in mid-division, headway to track leaders over 6f out, close up on inner over 2f out, weakened over 1f out
behind, shaken up and kept on final 2f, never able to challenge
behind, kept on under pressure final 2f but never dangerous
led to post, led in reared and lost ground start, pulled hard in rear, headway and in touch 12f out, weakened 4f out
always rear, lost touch from halfway
always rear, lost touch from halfway
chased leaders, pushed along halfway, weakened quickly over 3f out
Plenty of interesting types on show for this Grade Two contest, where places on the shortlist are reserved for Lutea, whose task is not an easy one under a double penalty, Best Actor, who looks a natural for the National Hunt game and has a bright future, and Netherley, whose gutsy attitude saw him home at Warwick last time and he is very much respected this afternoon. However, preference is for Shining Strand, who ran a blinder here on his debut last season and, with a lack of penalties very much in his favour, he has a great chance to atone for his narrow defeat today. Nicky Henderson has introduced some really nice types at this course and this half-brother to First Love, who was heavily punted for his racecourse bow, is the first to look for in what is likely to be a strong betting heat. Noel Chance is another trainer to have on your side in bumpers (especially at this course), so each-way support for Lissara will be dangerous to dismiss, while Earth Man is another that is worth a mention as one to bear in mind for future reference. Nevertheless, Shining Strand appeals as the one to be on at the likely prices and it will take a good one to overhaul him if he has trained on.
