York 2.05

 

I have to start with the 2019 running where the 1-2-3- re-oppose and with all on nice Handicap marks and on similar Soft Going they have excellent chances.

 

The only niggle with CROWNTHORPE is the Draw in Stall 20, last years race indicates a lower draw is best and although I think the horse has a great chance again, that Draw just puts me off. ALEMARATALYOUM similarly has a draw niggle but is a whopping 10lbs lower, mainly due to a poor 2020 symptomatic of the Stuart Williams yard. There have been a few glimmers with placed runners lately and again one I am very fearful of. If these pair were top 4-5 again, would be no surprise at all.

 

Of the 3 from last year old FIRMANENT gets the best draw in stall 6. He is a pound lower in the handicap, has been on the go in so many similar races so wholly exposed, but surely deserves one of these and will be one of the tips.

 

Tim Easterby runs a pair of last time out winners both drawn very low who are massive dangers, I think Mustarrid must revive at some point (possibly on AW) so the one who may have most progression and who caught my eye last time out is OUZO from the Richard Hannon yard. Has some Course and Distance runs of merit, this looks less hot than it's last decent run here and the horse has winning soft ground form. Draw is not ideal but not very high so a sporting chance from stall 13.