always behind, tailed off final 2f
chased leaders, ridden and headway to go 2nd over 2f out, kept on, no chance with winner
slowly into stride, always behind, tailed off final 2f
mid-division, outpaced halfway, well behind when hung left over 3f out, virtually pulled up
chased leaders, ridden and outpaced 3f out, weakened over 1f out
chased leaders, ridden 2f out, kept on under pressure final furlong, no impression
mid-division, outpaced 3f out, ridden and weakened 2f out
made all, pushed clear well over 1f out, eased inside final furlong, unchallenged
never better than mid-division, weakened and tailed off final 2f
chased winner to over 2f out, soon weakened
held up and behind, ridden and headway 3f out, kept on final 2f, nearest finish
There is not much strength in depth in a race that can go to Alrafidain, who could have too much class for Liberty Seeker and League Of Nations, who appeal as the biggest dangers from the rest of the cast. The last named is still open to improvement and shapes as if there is more to come from him now that he has been upped in distance. He has inherited plenty of stamina from his dam's side and could be a serious threat if he is allowed to dictate the pace this afternoon. Liberty Seeker paid his way over hurdles during the winter and proved to be a consistent performer. However, he does tend to give himself a lot to do in his races and others could have his measure when they bear down on the line. Therefore, we prefer to take the unexposed route with Alrafidain, who is a typically well-bred individual that represents a yard that always have to be afforded the utmost respect when they step one up in trip. The Derby entry for this son of Monsun looks an extremely optimistic target, but he should have enough in his armoury to cope with today's challenge.
