awkward start, tracked leaders, went 2nd over 2f out, led over 1f out, soon edged left, comfortably
tracked leader until ridden over 2f out, went 2nd again and rider dropped whip 1f out, stayed on same pace
led, headed over 1f out, soon not much room, 3rd and one pace final furlong
DRAGON MALL may be enduring a long losing run but is still rated 98 after a couple of decent efforts in tough handicaps last month and David Simcock’s charge should be winning this on today’s terms. Eyes On Asha made a winning start at Newcastle but struggled in a handicap back in August while Oceanus has little chance at the weights having only won a seller at Brighton so far.
Dragon Mall (USA) 7-2 (9-7) Slowly away and reluctant in rear early, good headway between horses 2f out, ridden chasing leaders over 1f out, weakening when slightly hampered and eased final 100 yards, 5th of 8, 3 3/4l behind Star Quality (8-2) at Kempton 7f hcp (2) pol in Jan.
Eyes On Asha (IRE) 7-1 (9-1) Held up towards rear, some late headway, never dangerous, 5th of 7, 5 3/4l behind Pivoine (9-3) at Kempton 1m 3f hcp (4) pol in Aug.
Oceanus (IRE) 25-1 (9-0) Mid-division, pushed along and outpaced 2f out, ridden over 1f out, keeping on when carried left inside final furlong, no threat, 6th of 13, 4 1/2l behind Captain Pugwash (9-2) at Chelmsford City 1m 2f hcp (5) pol in Jan.