steadied start, towards rear, ridden and some headway over 2f out, kept on, no impression final furlong
behind, hampered when not much room after 2f, never dangerous
chased winner, ridden over 2f out, soon weakened
chased leaders, pushed along over 3f out, ridden over 2f out, every chance over 1f out, not quicken inside final furlong
slow away, behind, hampered after 2f, never dangerous
in rear, hampered after 2f out, never dangerous after
mid-division, ridden over 2f out, soon weakened
made all, soon ridden over 2f out, hard ridden and under pressure over 1f out, kept inside final furlong, all out
in touch, ridden over 2f out, ran on well inside final furlong
It may prove to be significant that Mark Johnston has chosen to come here and not go to Goodwood with Kirkstone and the hint should be taken here. Juniper Banks and Fritillary appeal most of those with previous experience, whilst a move for Arkholme will also be interesting as the Robellino colt makes his debut here. However, Kirkstone ran as green as grass on his debut but still caught the eye in defeat. He is sure to have learnt plenty from that run and, like many of his predecessors from the Johnston camp, he can be expected to put in a much improved effort second time around. Therefore Kirkstone is the logical choice today.
