Timeform UK SmartPlays: Sunday August 4

Ascription dotted up in a competitive Goodwood event on Tuesday and will be hit hard by the handicapper for future events, but the widest berth compromises his chance of following up here and Shebebi, who has done well this year, may be the one to side with. Shebebi has been largely progressive this year, finding the frame in handicaps at Haydock and Newmarket last twice. This course and trip should suit his front-running style, and he merits close inspection.

It'll be a surprise if Newbury's 15:15 doesn't go the way of the one of the three maiden winners at the top of the weights, with Nezar just preferred to the Hannon pair Downturn and Cricklewood Green. Nezar was value for extra over the winning margin when making a winning debut in 6f Windsor maiden last month, requiring only hand riding to see off a next-time-out winner. He is in top hands and can surely only go one way.

Evangelist is bound to have his supporters following his Windsor win over this trip last time, but he may be worth taking on with Topamichi (16:45 Chester) who was very impressive when last seen at Lingfield in May and has gone well after a break before. Topamichi confirmed the promise of his good Redcar second in May (1¼m), when running out a facile winner at Lingfield 10 days later (9f). Given a break since, and no surprise to see him improve again.

Timeform UK SmartPlays

Back Shebebi in the 14:30 at Chester
Back Nezar in the 15:15 at Newbury
Back Topamichi in the 16:45 at Chester

Get open access to Timeform data for just £2.50 a day with Timeform Race Passes. It's like a Form Book, Black Book & Race Card all in one! Find Out More!