chased leaders, went 2nd before 2 out, led last, drew clear flat, easily
chased leader until before 2 out, not fluent last, weakened flat
soon behind
led, not fluent 6th, ridden and headed when not fluent last, no impression flat
Clearance has already enjoyed a profitable campaign but the handicapper has reacted accordingly, though the going will be in his favour again. Small Bad Bob was a beaten favourite here in May when last seen and has changed stables since with BROOKIE also having a first run for a new yard. However, it will be a surprise if Anthony Honeyball doesn’t find a race or two for the Irish import. Tapley was out of his depth at Sandown in April but has gone well in previous starts here.
Brookie (IRE) 13-2 (11-11) Rear of mid-division, 7th before 5th, took closer order 3 out, 4th 2 out, no impression and one paced run-in, 4th of 11, 8 1/4l behind Ricky Langford (10-0) at Cork 2m 1f hcp Good - Yielding in Aug.
Tapley 33-1 (10-13) Led until turning in, chased leaders, weakened after 2 out, 6th of 15, 13 3/4l behind Under Control (11-5) at Sandown 2m hcp (2) sft in Apr.
Clearance 9-1 (12-0) Mid-division, struggling and dropped to rear home turn, kept on from last, 3rd of 6, 18 3/4l behind Max Of Stars (10-8) at Stratford 2m hcp (4) gd in Sep.
Small Bad Bob (IRE) 13-8fav (10-10) Led, joined 2 out, narrowly headed run-in, kept on gamely, 2nd of 5, nk behind In The Air (12-0) at Fontwell 2m 3f hcp (4) gd in May.
