Paul Ferguson has two selections for us on Saturday; Faylaq in the Ascot 14:35 and Minella Beat 16:05 at Fontwell. Compare odds and bet.
Faylaq (2:35) steps out of handicap company at Ascot and is fancied to land the Group 3 Cumberland Lodge Stakes, for William Haggas and Dane O’Neill.
Twice a winner on easy ground earlier in the campaign, the well-bred son of Dubawi was beaten in a handicap over course-and-distance in mid-July when the ground was possibly on the quick side for him. Given two-and-a-half months off, he returned to win impressively at Kempton just 10 days ago and whilst he clearly needs to take another step forward, he did look a potential Group-class performer earlier in the season. His dam – Arc winner Danedream – handled soft ground and it could be that conditions really play to his strengths.
There is some decent jumps action this afternoon – mainly at Gowran Park where Dallas des Pictons makes his first start over fences – and, domestically, Jamie Snowden sends three nice horses from Lambourn to Fontwell.
The improving Chapmanshype goes in search of a hat-trick at the track, but has to defy another 8lbs rise in a stronger event, whilst Exod’ela is worth noting in the concluding bumper, having won an Irish Point under Derek O’Connor. The pick of his runners, however, looks to be Minella Beat (4:05) who can make a winning debut for the stable, in the Sky Sports Racing Virgin 435 Novices’ Hurdle. Runner-up to subsequent Grade 1 winner Battleoverdoyen in a bumper at Punchestown last November, the step up in distance looks sure to suit and he can make the perfect start to his career over hurdles.
Saturday’s selections:
2:35 Ascot – Faylaq; 3/1 Bet365
4:05 Fontwell – Minella Beat; 8/13 BetVictor
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NB. All odds shown are correct at time of publishing and are subject to change.
