Our first SmartPlay comes from Ludlow as we take the chance that Jeremy Scott can conjure further improvement out of On The Bridge (15:15). Since moving to the Scott yard, On The Bridge has found a level of consistency that was missing from his previous performances, winning three times and finishing a creditable second on the other two occasions. He has raced only once over fences with Scott, winning at Worcester by six lengths, and this winning pointer has scope for further improvement back over the larger obstacles.
We wait until the final race at Ludlow to bring you our second SmartPlay. Stevie Thunder is best known as a useful performer on the Flat, but it is entirely possible that he will be able to make an impression over hurdles, particularly as he competes off what looks to be a lenient handicap mark of 100. The forecast sound surface and sharp nature of the track should help to alleviate any stamina concerns and it would be disappointing were he not to make a bold bid.
The James Fanshawe-trained Miss Dashwood is taken to supplement her recent all-weather victory by landing the 18:10 at Wolverhampton. She travelled with real purpose on that occasion, making smooth headway to hit the front before leaving the impression that she was idling slightly in the closing stages, eventually holding on to win by a length. One suspects that this improving filly remains capable of better and it is worth siding with her.
Timeform SmartPlays:
Back On The Bridge @ 5.39/2 in the 15:15 at Ludlow
Back Stevie Thunder @ 4.131/10 in the 17:20 at Ludlow
Back Miss Dashwood @ 2.6413/8 in the 18:10 at Wolverhampton
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