Paul Ferguson has two selections for us on Saturday; Thebannerkingrebel in the 12:05 and Midnight Shadow 13:15 both at Haydock. Compare odds and bet.
The winner of his first two starts over hurdles THEBANNERKINGREBEL (12:05) is taken to bounce back from his final flight fall at Wetherby, in Haydock’s Listed novices’ hurdle.
The six-year-old was a high-class bumper performer – beat Greatwood Hurdle winner Harambe, before returning from a lengthy absence to finish runner-up in the Grade 2 at Aintree – and he beat inferior opposition in taking fashion during May and June. He was facing much stiffer opposition at Wetherby last time (was carrying a 10lbs penalty) and looked likely to beat useful Flat performer Proschema, when coming down at the last. Versatile in terms of ground, the selection is already rated 139 and sets a very decent standard for the in-form Jamie Snowden yard.
Later on the card, it is hoped that this race doesn’t come too quickly for MIDNIGHT SHADOW (1:15) who took a nasty fall at Carlisle, just 12 days ago.
If it hasn’t left a mark, the conditions of this graduation chase really do favour this smart hurdler, who has jumped well in the main in two starts over fences. Stepping up in trip on this easier track will suit and he is another who won’t mind what the weather does.
All the talk in the press today is of the big clash down at Ascot, as well as the match-up between the two big guns in the Betfair Chase at Haydock. There is a potentially high-class clash in Ireland, too, with Minella Indo and Laurina locking horns on chase debut at Gowran Park and given the trip is 2m4f, I would expect the mare to show the superior speed. It is certainly one of the most interesting races of the day.
Saturday’s selections:
12:05 Haydock – Thebannerkingrebel; 13/8 Paddy Power
1:15 Haydock – Midnight Shadow; 7/4 Bet365
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