Verdict

Irish import Golden Flower opened her account in a maiden over 5f here last time and there should be more to come from her now she's got her head in front. However, ARCHIE STEVENS makes more appeal as the C&D winner ended last year with a win at Lingfield. Only 3lb higher today, he's preferred to 7f maiden winner Be On The Bell as the latter has failed to figure in a couple of handicaps so far. Clear Loch is getting closer but needs another step forward on his handicap debut if he's to trouble the selection.

Formwatch

Archie Stevens 5-2 (9-4) Close up, chased leader halfway, ridden and every chance from 2f out, driven and stayed on to lead near finish, won at Lingfield 6f 2yo hco 0-75 (5) pol in Dec beating Small Fury (9-3) by nk, 4 ran.

Golden Flower 1-4fav (8-12) Made all, clear over 1f out, edged right and pushed out final furlong, comfortable, won at Wolverhampton 5f 2yo mdn stks (5) pol in Dec beating Black Rider (9-3) by 4 1/2l, 5 ran.

Be On The Bell 12-1 (8-13) Dwelt in touch in rear, ridden 2f out, never a factor, last of 6, 4 1/2l behind Lilac Lace (8-4) at Wolverhampton 7f 2yo hcp 0-85 (4) pol in Dec.

Clear Loch 7-1 (9-3) Held up, ridden over 1f out, stayed on final furlong, nearest finish, 3rd of 7, 3 1/2l behind Gift Of Music (8-12) at Wolverhampton 6f 2yo mdn auc stks (6) pol in Nov.