Penalised novice likely to pull clear of plucky rival in enticing match bet

2.30 Ascot
Buy at 2.75 in match bet with Shantou Express

The market for this Grade 2 novices' hurdle is likely to be extremely fluid with five of the six runners holding obvious claims. With that being the case, the match bet between Llandinabo Lad and Shantou Express looks extremely appealing.

Llandinabo Lad, the ante-post favourite for this race, is on a stiff upward trajectory and confirmed earlier promise when grinding out victory in a soft-ground Listed hurdle over this trip at Haydock last time.

Although he's just had five starts, he races like a seasoned pro and will look to make this race a test, despite the fact he has to give 5lb to his rivals.

He may be vulnerable to pacier sorts in the Ascot straight, but Shantou Express doesn't fit into that category and may find the solid early clip puts him out of his comfort zone before the race properly develops.

A promising horse in his own right but ideally suited to 2m4f, Shantou Express lacks an electric turn of foot and would be seen to better effect if this turns into a slog.

He has conditions in his favour, but it's not difficult to foresee the protagonists, including Llandinabo Lad, scoot clear rounding the home bend.

2.30 Ascot
Sporting (50-25-10): 17-20 Llandinabo Lad, My Drogo, 15-18 No Ordinary Joe, 14-17 Soaring Glory, 10-13 Shantou Express, 5-7 Press Your Luck.

Match bet: Llandinabo Lad/Shantou Express 1.25-2.75.

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