Eight horses take part: one four-year-old and seven aged three.
Gerry is a chestnut filly aged four, burdened by an age penalty and limited ability shown on debut for trainer Matthew Salaman. This daughter of Captain Gerrard was 200/1 on debut when slowly away and always in rear.
Only Fools And Horses fans may be interested in Derek Duval. However, bookmakers are unlikely to fear Stuart William's once-raced gelding. He didn't achieve a great deal back in August when some ten lengths behind a fair horse in Grey Britain. Aaron Jones takes off a handy three pounds. Worth noting if seriously backed.
Lostock proved rather disappointing last time out when beaten favourite. Formerly trained by Richard Fahey, still in the ownership of David Armstrong, this son of Kodiac was outpaced over 5f when Logi had the field in trouble with a bold front-running display. Lostock is well drawn in stall one. Connections must have been disappointed last time out and probably consider they made a mistake attempting the minimum trip. This sixth furlong needs to bring improvement. It could be the case he needed the run or wasn't quite right at Wolverhampton. A horse worthy of respect. The betting may be revealing.
Les Eyres purchased Prazeres who was formerly trained by William Haggas. This bay son of Sepoy looked to have regressed quite markedly on the two runs prior his sale. I wasn't sure what to think when racing just over a week ago. However, he showed a positive attitude and only denied in the closing stages after leading. He was beaten by one of today's runners, Trotter.
Stuart Kittow doesn't have many horses in his string but a capable trainer. Trotter showed limited ability on his first two starts but made his presence felt when starting 18/1 at Wolverhampton, pipping Prazeres to the post by half a length. There doesn't look to be much between the two.
Seneca Chief hasn't been seen for nearly a month. This bay gelding is owned by Mr & Mrs Middlebrook. He finished last but not disgraced. Although priced huge odds at the time of writing [25/1] may have a glimmer of hope if well backed.
The sole debutante is worthy of note. Anna Medici is trained by Sir Mark Prescott. This daughter of Sir Percy is best judged by the market. If priced 13/2 & less SP has very good win and place claims. If weak in the market best take a watching brief as it suggests she will be in need of the race.
Boogie Babe hasn't shown much ability on two starts and may be better when handicapped.
Conclusion: A run of the mill race. Lostock was disappointing last time out but well connected. This step up in distance is a must after being comprehensively outpaced last start. If strong in the betting could go well. If weak, I wouldn't be so sure.Trotter & Prazeres battle hard last just over a week ago when half a length split the pair. It could be a close call between them. The betting is key for Anna Medici. I have a feeling this filly was a recent non-runner. If priced 13/2 & less SP has good each-way claim. If weak best watched. With regard to Prescott's debutante, I would definitely let the betting settle before taking the plunge. It may well help narrow the field by one major threat. The betting may detail whether Lostock is a good or bad thing. Prazeres and Trotter look sturdy and if touching each-way prices may be the pick. I would take a watching brief unless Anna Medici is priced 13/2 & less SP.