prominent, ridden halfway, weakened final furlong
tracked leaders, ridden over 2f out, headway to lead inside final furlong, kept on well
led, headed halfway, soon ridden, weakened inside final furlong
behind, ridden over 2f out, no impression
in touch, ridden halfway, weakened over 1f out
Compton Earl and Pirlie Hill are less exposed than most of these and warrant respect but the vote goes to Dark Champion, who has solid recent form to his name and may prove to be too good for his rivals. The selection advertised his current well being when runner-up to Bob's Buzz (good handicap winner since) in a Newcastle maiden last month and filled the same position when chasing home Yomalo over Beverley's stiff five furlongs. The longer trip here should not inconvenience Jedd O'Keefe's gelding, who looks the safest bet. Compton Earl showed improved form when fifth to Market Hill at Sandown last time but needs to improve again to trouble the selection as does Linda Perratt's Pirlie Hill, who's best effort came when fourth of 14 in a Catterick maiden two starts ago. The remainder look distinctly moderate with Otylia, from the Alan Berry stable that is showing signs of a return to form, probably the pick of them. However, Dark Champion holds solid claims of gaining a long overdue first success and gets the vote to do so.