tracked leader, driven to lead 2f out, headed approaching final furlong, kept on same pace under pressure
led, headed 2f out, weakened and hung left from 1f out
tracked leader, led just over 1f out, ridden out
steadied start, held up in rear, raced keen early, effort over 2f out, never on terms
It appears a match between Bridge of Fermoy and Days of Pleasure and we will side with the later. Jamie Osbournes' gelding made all to land a Southwell 7f maiden last time, keeping on tenaciously in the closing stages, suggesting that this 1m trip will be right up his street. He has proved vulnerable against lesser exposed rivals prior to that but front running tactics worked the oracle in what was an ordinary contest but he will take some stopping here. Tactics will prove key to Bridge of Fermoy's bid. He has the upper hand on his rival based on handicap ratings but has won in the past coming off a fast pace and Tom Queally will be anxious not to set the race up for him. Montefiore has a large pull at the weights with Bridge Of Fermoy after their clash in February but has it all to do on a line through Home. Days of Pleasure appreciated the change of tactics at Southwell and should he bounce out in front, he is the one to beat and gets the nod.
Bridge of Fermoy (IRE) 15-8fav (9-6) Held up in touch, took closer order 4f out, ridden to go 2nd entering final furlong, led final 100 yards, ran on, won at Lingfield 1m 2f 3yo clm (6) pol in Mar beating Home (9-3) by 1 1/2l, 7 ran.
Days of Pleasure (IRE) 11-8fav (8-12) Made virtually all, ridden out, won at Southwell 7f mdn aut stk (6) fbs in Mar beating Moonage Daydream (8-12) by 1 1/2l, 9 ran.
Lizzie Wiggins Mujahid filly, half-sister to 1m-1m2f winner Mad Maurice.
Montefiore (IRE) 4-1 (8-13) Held up, ridden over 2f out, soon struggling, 4th of 5, 11l behind Dhhamaan (8-12) at W'hampton 7f 3yo clm (5) pol in Mar.