HT 9 An absolute cracker with new Derby favourite Pesanta (8-13) back on the inside, a route that he was desperate to get to from T5 last time out. He had the fastest sectional and fastest winning time. But this is no penalty kick. Waikiki Keano darted inside at the start and also showed great early so the favourite can’t afford to miss it. Newinn Taylor (2-1) walked away first time out but still led well at the bend. He will probably need to find that five lengths to be competitive.
HT 10 Two of Irish racing’s most popular seasoned performers line in in traps one and two. Wolfe (11-10) was hugely impressive for the first 400 yards last week but clearly needed the run. Anton was faultless, though his winning time was disappointing. The early paced Athlacca Zette looks their biggest danger on the outside.
Ht 11 Ballymac Wild (11-8) was runner-up in the Champion Stakes and although a definite inside runner, ran well in orange last week. Looks set for the later stages. Iconic Rory showed nice early and will probably be pursued to the bend by his two neighbours who both look strong types. But there are fewer guarantees of a clear run near the rail. NAP
Ht 12 The bookies are all over the rangey Ballymac Cooper (11-10f) who has tremendous pace with a clear run. But Deerpark Jet (15-8) was hugely impressive in his heat. He clocked a flying 17.11 sectional and can dominate from the front
Ht 13 On paper one of the most uncompetitive heats of the round. Razldazl Peaky (1-1) was beaten on merit by Pestana but was a merited second. His strike rate is very moderate, but it is very hard to oppose him.
Ht 14 This looks to be a match between the two fastest to the third bend between Da Bold Eagle (7-4) and Degrom (15-8) See them side by side early, with the Eagle possibly struggling off the last. Scooby Princess showed ability last time out and will be finishing strongly.
Ht 15 Boylesports Xtra (11-8) was probably the worst drawn runner of the first round. A class act, much happier on the rail and should be gone! Mustang Firmino (3-1) looks a genuine wide who will be running on. But there could be a big run in Ballymac Wisdom (5-1) who ran a great race to qualify.
Ht 16 The best race of the second round and three high quality hounds will be eliminated. Graham Holland will have nightmares about switching Lenson Bocko’s (11-10) seeding last time. He will move to middle but should break much better on the outside. His price is as much about the draw as ability. Roanna Bess ran a cracker in her heat and if Feudal Spirit checks at the turn, the trouble is all on the inside. Who will escape it?
