Poetic Force was disappointing on his latest start at Lingfield Park, but a return to Wolverhampton could spark a revival.
On his penultimate start, he was closing in on two mid-80 rated horses and that performance alone was as good a piece of recent form as any horse in the field.
He likes to give weight to lesser horses when he’s successful and he has the additional 5lb claim of talented young rider Elisha Whittington. The pair could finish in the frame.
13:15 Sandown – The Worthy Brat (each-way) SP
There are only six runners in the opening contest at Sandown Park, so each-way terms mean that to be placed you have to finish in the first two.
The Worthy Brat was a very good winner on his debut, but hasn’t loved the testing conditions on his most recent starts. A return to better ground should suit him and this race isn’t the strongest.
15:27 Hereford – Voyage De Retour (each-way) SP
Voyage De Retour is a lightly-raced nine-year-old who had spent most of his career with Nicky Henderson. He has showed glimpses of promise, but rarely made the racecourse so struggled to fulfil it.
He has since moved to Toby Lawes' yard, where he finished a very good second over hurdles at 40/1 on his stable debut.
He’s now going over fences and if his trainer has had a clear run with him, he could be too good for these rivals and looks a solid each way selection.
4 To Win
13:50 Sandown – Sheldon 20/1
He was staying on well behind Karl Phillipe at Exeter last time, which backed up a good success at Fakenham. He’s smart and improving and may have been overlooked.
14:25 Sandown – One True King 9/1
He seems to be better over 2m and some of his early season form is good. He’s still improving and has the right profile for a race of this nature.
15:00 Sandown – Step To The Top 20/1
She disappointed at Doncaster last time, but clearly capable of better. She’s got good form in the book from last season and she should go well.
15:35 Sandown – Belargus 4/1
He is an improving young horse, who bolted up here last time. I expect him to improve again for going up in trip and think he’s got outstanding claims.
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