mid-division, ridden over 2f out, stayed on well final furlong
prominent until weakened over 1f out
prominent, ridden over 2f out, weakened over 1f out
in touch, every chance and going well approaching final furlong, not quicken
mid-division, driven 3f out, soon weakened
towards rear, some moderate late headway
in touch on out side, ridden to lead approaching final furlong, ran on well
towards rear, some headway over 1f out, one pace
went right start, soon in touch and pulled hard, ridden to chase leaders over 2f out, weakened
in touch, ridden and weakened over 2f out
prominent, ridden and wandered over 2f out, weakened soon after
narrow leader, ridden when headed approaching final furlong, kept on to chase winner final furlong but no extra close home
It remains to be seen what advantage the draw throws up on this ground so the vote goes to Desert Commander who can utilise a position near the centre of the course to track whatever pace materializes. There are numerous dangers though and the likes of Chinese Puzzle has to be of interest as only the second juvenile to race from the Henry Cecil yard this season. Obviously there are numerous others to watch out for as the betting unfolds and the likes of Northanger Abbey, as well as Transgress and Bay Hawk should be high on the list of alternatives. The same comments have to apply to Liakoura, whose yard are just hitting form again and he has every chance of going close if they decide to stay on the far side. Storm Fury would also benefit from that scenario and he too could go close for his shrewd trainer, whose record speaks for itself with his runners this season. However, Gimcrack entry Desert Commander also comes from a stable that can do little wrong with their younger horses and can do his bit to justify the Godolphin policy of playing a strong hand with juveniles this term. This half-brother to the very useful Lucky Pipit is unlikely to be sent off at a bank-bursting price, but his pedigree looks the real deal for a race like this and there will be some strong questions to answer if he cannot deliver the goods today.
