held up, struggling to stay in touch 8th, soon behind, tailed off when pulled up before 4 out
tracked leaders, outpaced 5 out, stayed on under pressure from 3 out, rallied to lead after last, all out
held up, chased leaders 5 out, ridden and chance next, weakened 2 out
led, headed 8th, chased leaders, ridden and weakened after 4 out
blundered 1st, behind and not jump well, never dangerous
with leader, led 8th, ridden after 4 out, mistake and rider lost iron 2 out, headed after last, held flat
A tough race to call here with many in the field having disappointed last time, however the principals look to be Rodber, Eastern Tribute and McCracken and the nomination goes to the last named. The eight-year-old won well last time out at Doncaster when defeating Armen and although he is taking on more experienced rivals here he is taken to win again off what looks a fair mark and with conditions again in his favour. The top weight Eastern Tribute would rate the main danger on his best form but that has come with much more cut in the ground and for that reason he is opposed. Rodber is also worthy of respect he was a fair second behind Le Duc last time and a reproduction of that effort would see him go close. Of the remainder Island Faith is from a yard that is still going through a quiet patch but is well in on his best form. However for the winner we return to McCracken.
