First up is the 14:20 at Sandown, and Takeitfromalady can get backers off to a good start. Ralph Beckett's gelding capped off a progressive juvenile campaign with a soft-ground victory at Ffos Las on his final start in 2011, and has built upon that in three starts this year. A winner on his reappearance in May, he chased home a potentially useful type at Newmarket last weekend and, with today's underfoot conditions no problem, he looks to have strong claims of going one better.
Switching focus to York, and Newstead Abbey is fancied to confirm the promise of his course-and-distance debut last month in the 16:45. Possibly finding the race coming too soon when only finishing fifth at Haydock a fortnight ago, he was nevertheless sent off a well-backed favourite that day, indicating that a race of today's nature is clearly thought to be within his capability. The powerful yards of Richard Fahey and Kevin Ryan both saddle respected newcomers, but Newstead Abbey can put his experience to good use and take the win.
Finally at York, Green Park looks worth chancing in the 17:15. Declan Carroll's nine-year-old has been in top form in recent weeks, winning at Chester last month before finishing a somewhat unfortunate third at Catterick last week, travelling strongly but just touched off by a better-placed front pair. Only 2 lb higher now, he won't be inconvenienced by the soft going and can take advantage of a low draw.
Timeform SmartPlays
Back Takeitfromalady @ 3.052/1 in the 14:20 at Sandown
Back Newstead Abbey @ 3.1511/5 in the 16:45 at York
Back Green Park @ 9.08/1 in the 17:15 at York
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