Timeform UK SmartPlays: Friday August 31

At Sandown, Rock God (15:25) takes on opposition from some big stables, fielding both experienced runners and newcomers, but Eve Johnson Houghton's colt is expected to get his head in front based on his very strong debut form. Rock God shaped well to finish three-quarters of a length second at Goodwood behind the subsequent Acomb runner-up Steeler, with plenty of other runners in behind also achieving success since, most notably a Richard Hannon trio headed by York winner Wentworth. It's fair to say on that basis that a maiden win is well within Rock God's grasp.

Clive Cox's stable continues in fine form, and Devdas (16:35) should reap the rewards in this handicap at Sandown. He was a beaten favourite last time out after a nine-week break, finishing fourth at Newmarket when racing freely early on, which then took its toll after taking the lead two furlongs from home. Despite that, Devdas is running up to his best at the moment, showing consistent form, and should go well again to record his first win of this season.

Up at Thirsk, by far the least exposed in the 16:55 is Dakota Canyon, who can find his first handicap success after a satisfactory comeback run at York in July behind Dutch Rose. He should be sharper for the run, and back with an experienced jockey on board, he should improve to overcome the seasoned opposition, which includes five C&D winners. Dakota Canyon isn't drawn ideally, but dropped in on his last run, he shouldn't be overly affected by it with a strong pace promised, and on soft ground, the race should become something of a stamina test, which will suit him.

Timeform SmartPlays

Back Rock God @ 2.829/5 in the 15:25 at Sandown
Back Devdas @ 5.39/2 in the 16:35 at Sandown
Back Dakota Canyon @ 8.615/2 in the 16:55 at Thirsk