Deuce Again to come up trumps in the Maiden 4-y-o Fillies' Stakes over eleven furlongs of Southwell fibresand today; no danger whatsoever from six rivals but will John Gosden's charge act on the 'deep stuff?'
This a question posed regularly; such an important issue obviously but it's difficult to imagine that 'Big John' isn't convinced that twice-raced Deuce Again will cope with underfoot conditions. Way back in mid-summer Deuce Again achieved time-handicap marks way superior to anything posted by this opposition; it will be a surprise if this Dubawi filly is extended never mind beaten. An absence of 167 days might just influence punters and bookmakers, Deuce Again could indeed start at half-decent odds but when dealing with Gosden runners fitness is never an issue; he doesn't 'waste a race!' Mon Petit Fleur is ready to win and the nursery handicap over five furlongs of Wolverhampton Tapeta might just prove fifth time lucky for Chris Dwyer's charge, mount of excellent Northern-based apprentice, Conor Beasley, who rode out his claim last year. Three weeks ago Mon Petit Fleur tackled handicappers over course and distance, and improved considerably; this Arabian Gleam filly was being ridden by Beasley for the first time. Dwyer places horses shrewdly, can't be faulted and if Mon Petit Fleur replicates that last effort there can only be one winner against token rivals.
Another trainer who places great emphasis on fitness is Mick Channon who fields two for the Maiden Stakes over six furlongs, El Che and Alpha Spirit, our selection; it's a dire race!
Click on to www.dailyearner.co.uk for updates with two 'soft' ground NH meetings, Ayr and Ffos Las, interesting.