Richard Birch provides his Goodwood placepot for Monday

Credit: Edward Whitaker

Mark Johnston and Richard Hannon have made fine starts to the season with their two-year-olds.

Both have a rich tradition of sending out juvenile winners at Goodwood, so side with their representatives, Dark Company and Fountain Cross, in the opening maiden (12.00).

The Hannon-trained Fromnowon shaped promisingly on her two starts last July at Newbury and Newmarket, finishing placed on both occasions. She brings a reasonable standard of form into the three-year-old maiden (12.35), so I’ll bank on her to get the job done.

Course specialist Pettochside nearly sprang a 40-1 surprise on his reappearance at Lingfield recently. He usually comes on for his first run of the season, and will relish the return to his favourite track. A huge run looks almost guaranteed in the 6f handicap (1.10), where Treacherous, rated 15lb lower on turf than sand, must also be included.

The Johnston and Hannon newcomers Basilicata and Feathers are the suggestions for the 7f novice (1.40).

De Bruyne Horse, who was once rated in three figures, bids for a hat-trick in the 7f handicap (2.10). An uncontested lead beckons and he’ll prove hard to pass.

Variyann made an explosive winning start for Archie Watson at Haydock, bolting up by five lengths. A 5lb penalty should not stop him in the mile handicap (2.45).