tracked leaders, ridden over 3f out, soon weakened, eased over 1f out
led after 1f, ridden and headed over 4f out, not clear run 2f out, soon weakened
in touch, headway over 3f out, ridden and every chance over 2f out, no extra final furlong
held up, headway 4f out, ridden to lead 2f out, soon clear, eased inside final furlong
always in rear, pushed along 8f out, weakened and eased over 3f out
led 1f, stayed prominent, led again over 4f out, ridden and headed 2f out, weakened final furlong
The form book speaks in favour of Privy Seal and John Gosden's charge will be very hard to overhaul if, as expected, the step up in trip does not pose him too many problems. And as there is reason to suggest it will at this stage, the son of Cape Cross is a strong fancy to land this valuable prize. Graham Island has obvious claims after his eye-catching performance in overcoming a little trouble in running to win at Newbury last month. He hails from a yard that has traditionally done well here and he is very much respected. However, Temple Place - who holds a Derby entry - makes more appeal at the likely prices as the biggest danger. The son of Sadler's Wells broke the course record for a juvenile over extended mile when he won his maiden at Windsor last September, before creating the impression that he needed further as the season went on. His reappearance effort does leave him with a little to find with Privy Seal though and, just for today, he is the best bet to fill the forecast position only. Isidore Bonheur is another that has improvement to find and he, in turn, is probably best watched with Gosden's runner in the line up. In summary: it would be no surprise to see a few of these make their mark in good company as the season goes on, but nothing appeals more than Privy Seal for the present.
