led for 3f, settled behind leader, led over 1f out, soon edged right, kept on well
settled 3rd, driven 2f out, weakened over 1f out
settled last, effort 2f out, stayed on to take 2nd inside final furlong, no impression on winner
Shabernak possesses a good turn of foot and that may swing things his way against Alcazar and Supremacy. Michael Bell's stayer was a good winner over the course and distance the time before last, and defied an eight-pound rise in the weights to master the useful Itemise at Doncaster. Seen as a potential Cup horse by his trainer, the four-year-old looks well up to adding to his tally here. Alcazar has already ventured into Cup company, but was tailed off last behind Mr Dinos at Ascot and has been off since June. He is capable at this level though and can run a big race despite the fast ground. It must be pointed out however, that his normal rider Michael Fenton is now on Shabernak, with Pat Eddery taking over on Hughie Morrison's inmate. Supremacy is a progressive sort who was hampered behind Compton Bolter at Chester, but like the rest he will do well to stop Shabernak from using his finishing speed to settle matters in the finale.
