Andy Holding is back with two tips for today's action, with runners at Ffos Las and Pontefract.
15:35 Ffos Las
Denis Anthony clearly faced an impossible task trying to cope with the well-treated Blindedbythelights at Yarmouth last time, but he does tackle a couple of potentially tricky opponents in the shape of SOLUTION (best price 9/2) and Royal Dream, and of the pair, the former could provide the favourite with the most to think about.
Lacking the pace and tactical nous to be effective on his only two starts last season over seven furlongs, even a mile looked to be too sharp for him in a hot contest at Doncaster last time out as he got engulfed by a whole bunch of speedier and classier types in the latter stages.
Keeping on at the one pace to finish seventh, he ended up getting beaten 10 lengths by the potentially very smart Embesto but it has meant he hasn’t ended up being punished too harshly and off an opening mark of 65, he at least gets a chance to be more competitive against horses of similar ability. Moreover, he now tackles a trip that, based on his pedigree and what we have seen of him so far to date, should suit and at the morning odds, he is worth a small interest to see whether middle distances bring out the best in him.
16:15 Pontefract
MY LITTLE QUEENS (best price 12/1) blew away her chance at Beverley last time out with a slow start but cast that occurrence aside and she has been in terrific form so far this season and there is a strong possibility she can get back on track in this similar contest providing she breaks on terms.
Draw 11 of 11 at the Yorkshire venue 14 days ago she was always going to be hamstrung to a certain degree but once she found herself at the back in what was a hugely competitive field, her chances of getting involved were greatly increased. She did, however, keep on well in the latter stages to finish a never-nearer sixth and as the time figure of the race worked out the best on the seven-race card, her effort in defeat suggested she remains in good form.
Winner of two of her three races prior to her unplaced result, the daughter of Mastercraftsman ticks another box on account of her fine display on her only start over today’s course last season and from a potentially favourable draw, a cleaner getaway can hopefully reap better rewards this time around.
