Verdict

The maiden that closes the card sees Fringe, Ancent Culture, Fisher Bridge and Vanquisher shortlisted, with the selection being Fringe. Having finished fourth in a French Listed race two runs ago, Fringe then finished second in a Wolverhampton maiden which, in truth, was disappointing. Maybe she can make amends this afternoon. Fisher Bridge appears to be fragile, although he has some talent too, and the easier going today might help his cause. Ancient Culture was sent off as 15/8 favourite last time but ran a bit disappointingly. That was on soft going but, based on the promise of his earlier runs, he would have to come right into things. Vanquisher has the ability to go well but does not look straightforward, although the longer trip and easier going from Goodwood last time might help his chance. Marlyn Ridge was fourth from a handicap mark of 62 last time out (at this track on good to soft) which is modest form, and Winter Lane is bred to be better than he has so far shown and maybe cheekpieces will have a beneficial effect today. Finally, Henry Cecil's Precious Mettle was well beaten on her debut, and Luca Cumani's Esclarmonde was also in the ruck on her latest start. All of which returns us to the selection, which is Fringe.

Formwatch

Fisher Bridge (IRE) 9-1 (9-3) Chased leaders, ridden to chase winner inside final 2f, soon no impression, 2nd of 8, 5l behind Topjeu (9-3) at Bath 1m 4f mdn stk (5) gf in Aug.

Fringe 1-3fav (8-12) In touch, pushed along over 4f out, chased winner 2f out, one pace and no impression, 2nd of 10, 3l behind Stanerra's Story (9-6) at W'hampton 1m 4f mdn stk (5) pol in Feb.

Royalties 33-1 (8-4) Led after 1f, headed over 5f out, soon weakened, tailed off, last of 6, well behind Mister Completely (9-4) at W'hampton 1m 6f sll (6) pol in Jun.

Ancient Culture 15-8fav (9-3) Slowly into stride, always behind, 6th of 12, 17l behind Wing Express (9-3) at Leicester 1m 4f 3yo mdn (5) sft in Jun.

Arabian Sun 66-1 (8-13) Soon in touch, ridden and outpaced over 4f out, not a danger after, 5th of 8, 11l behind Speed Gifted (8-13) at Folkestone 1m 4f mdn stk (4) gd in Jun.

Marlyn Ridge 50-1 (8-13) Chased winner to over 1f out, unable to quicken final furlong, 4th of 16, 2l behind Ballet Boy (9-0) at Windsor 1m 2f 3yo hcp (5) gs in Jun.

Sir Jake Killer Instinct colt out of a moderate racemare.

Vanquisher (IRE) 16-1 (9-2) Slowly into stride, towards rear, steady progress from over 2f out, stayed on, 5th of 13, 3l behind Malt Or Mash (9-5) at Goodwood 1m 2f 3yo hcp (4) gd.