Merry Me failed in her bid for the hat-trick at Sandown last time, but that was still arguably a career-best effort from the progressive three-year-old, finishing a good third in a strong heat, and she can resume winning ways in the 15:20. Merry Me took a keen hold at Sandown, those early exertions counting against her late on, but she shaped well, holding every chance a furlong out, leaving the impression that she remains fairly treated. She is reunited with Jim Crowley - the man who was on board for her two victories - and has had her form franked by the success of GM Hopkins at Newmarket on Friday.
Jakey is lightly raced for a four-year-old and he continued on his upward curve when winning a handicap over C&D last time; he should go close in the 15:55. Jakey impressed with the amount of ground that he made up for his latest win, carrying his head a bit awkwardly but quickening in good style, and he was value for more than the narrow winning margin. He remains on a fair mark and is capable of better, while his proven record at this unique course is an obvious positive, so Jakey looks good betting material.
Our final SmartPlay runs in the concluding seven-furlong handicap at 17:40 as Ortac Rock shaped well over five furlongs on his belated return to action at Beverley last month, meeting trouble at a crucial stage. Ortac Rock didn't shape as if the drop back to the minimum trip was a problem, but he has proven himself to be effective over seven furlongs - has a C&D win to his name - and is entitled to improve on his reappearance outing. He looks to have plenty in his favour and a bold showing is on the cards.
Timeform UK SmartPlays:
All at Epsom
Back Merry Me @ 4.57/2 in the 15:20
Back Jakey @ 5.79/2 in the 15:55
Back Ortac Rock 6.611/2 in the 17:40
