Count Minstrel 13/8 Cheltenham

Paul Ferguson has one selection for us on Friday; Count Minstrel in the 2.40 at Cheltenham. Compare odds and bet.

Despite having to shoulder a 5lb penalty and facing a trio of intriguing chase debutants Court Minstrel (2:40) is taken to make it two from two over fences at Cheltenham on Friday.

Evan Williams’ seven-year-old was a high-class hurdler on his day and did little wrong on his first start over fences, giving 11lbs to Fred Winter fourth Keltus.  A slight error at the last was his only semblance of a mistake and, having won at this meeting two years ago, he has proven himself at the track.

At his best on a decent surface (therefore, I’m hopeful of a dry night), he will be held up and could have too much speed for today’s rivals.

Of the opposition, Thomas Crapper might be better served over further though is reportedly going to be ridden more prominently over fences, while Un Ace is greatly respected, given his record fresh.  Again, he could be suited by an extra half-mile as the season goes on and I’d have preferred to see him line-up in tomorrow’s novice chase.

Friday’s selection:
2:40 Cheltenham: Court Minstrel; 13/8 Betfred

Compare all today’s horse racing odds and bet at the best prices

Paul Ferguson’s Jumpers To Follow 2014-15
Pre order now, published early September in good time for the new season: Just £9:95 inc p&p
* order online www.cc-publishing.co.uk
* or, send a cheque payable to ‘The Racing Insider’ to PO Box 98, Liverpool L9 1WY (with address details)

Fellow Betrescue columnist and Bet Victor’s Charlie McCann says: “It really is a privilege to write the foreword for such an informative and well-researched publication, which continues to go from strength to strength.”