Southwell Racing Tips: Local Bay can defy a penalty

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Local Bay - 19:45 Southwell

Local Bay was strong in the betting and duly resumed winning ways on his return from nine weeks off when proving three and a half lengths too good for the reopposing Al Suil Eile over course and distance last week and it is no surprise that connections turn him out under a 5 lb penalty. He seemed well suited by the drop back to seven furlongs, travelling well in a handy position and putting the race to bed in a matter of strides entering the final furlong. This may be a slightly deeper race but Local Bay is ahead of his mark and must go close to following up.

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Superstar DJ - 17:15 Southwell

Superstar DJ didn't look like he had much ability even when switched to handicaps, falling 8 lb in the weights after just two starts, but he proved a different proposition fitted with first-time blinkers when opening his account over course and distance on his final start in October. He was clearly livened up by the fitting of headgear while also relishing the step up to a mile, making a good move into contention and staying on well. That performance was also backed up by the clock and he is fancied to defy a 4 lb rise after a short break.