Race of the Day Preview / Timeform / 26 October 2009 / Leave a comment

Tactic comes here on the back of some consistent efforts and can prove the best of a disappointing bunch. Copperbeech threatens to do better at this trip, while Alfie Flits will appreciate the return to a mile and a half and has place claims.

"Copperbeech was third in a Group 1 at Longchamp as a two-year-old (trained by Andre Fabre). She has slowly come to hand for her new stable and this step up in trip looks sure to suit. The stable continues in fine form."

Once More Dubai ended 2008 with a fine third in an Italian Group 1 and produced sound efforts for his new yard earlier this year. He was absent for over four months and looked to have gone wrong at York last time. He has something to prove for now.

Alfie Flits shaped as though the ability was still there when in midfield in mile-and-a-quarter handicap in August and this trip will suit. He can't be ignored in a race where few bring rock-solid credentials into the contest.

Ezdiyaad is none too genuine and was well held in two starts in the spring, but produced a fair effort at Ascot on his return from a break last time. His best efforts have come over shorter trips, though, and others are preferred.

Inventor was a useful handicapper in 2008, winning at Windsor and Haydock, while also producing a brace of good seconds. He was not disgraced on his reappearance, but that doesn't look solid form and he was well held last time. Others look stronger.

Tactic has shown gradual improvement since winning a mile-and-a-half maiden at Goodwood, finishing placed in Pattern company on three occasions. This trip is a minimum for him, but he is at least in form and is consistent. He has leading claims.

Copperbeech was third in a Group 1 at Longchamp as a two-year-old (trained by Andre Fabre). She has slowly come to hand for her new stable and this step up in trip looks sure to suit. The stable continues in fine form.

Tags: Alfie Flits, Copperbeech, Ezdiyaad, Inventor, Leicester, Once More Dubai, Tactic