Force will be blinkered for the first time when Frankie Dettori continues association with John Gosden's thrice-raced charge in the two-year-old Maiden Stakes over six furlongs of 'good' ground Haydock today; losses incurred six weeks ago may well be recovered if indeed they serve to sharpen up this well-bred Raven's Pass colt.
On the time-handicap Force is clear 'best-in' but several fashionable yards have 'reps' which could aspire considerably, namely William Haggas with Easy Code and Tom Dascombe-trained Above N Beyond, not to mention Ikerrin Road (John Quinn); all made 'pleasing debut efforts and are certain to be well-backed.
'Big John' seldom panics but obviously Dettori, after riding Force for the first time at Newbury, must have questioned his resolution, hence fitting of the equipment which, of course,is designed to encourage concentration and focus.
Champion trainer-elect Gosden has enjoyed a deal of success at this flat, galloping, Lancashire venue and Force ticks enough boxes; so does Dal Harralld in the two-year-old Maiden Stakes over a mile half an hour later.
Dal Harralld must have delighted Haggas when a promising fourth at Newmarket in July but doubtless his mood contrasted when this colt by Champs Elysees failed to justify favouritism in a similar race at Salisbury just over three weeks later; although runner-up to Battle Pride the time handicap mark was ten pounds less!
Often racehorses improve by that amount from established yards.
Anyway Dal Harralld has been given a month 'recovery time' and has achieved marks similar to those of Force; they have achieved enough to be selected and I'll probably be keen on an each-way double with three places and decent odds available in both races.
At Salisbury where it will still be 'soft' Justice Law appeals in the opening Novice stakes over a mile; david elsworth's charge has done enough for a solid bet.
SELECTIONS
1.40 Justice Law
2.30 Force (e.w.)
3.00 Dal Harralld (nap)