Ancient Cross looks primed to make a bold bid for a repeat success in the 1.30 York and makes plenty of appeal at 14/1.
Mick Easterby’s charge shaped really well on his comeback run when finishing 9th of 22 to Ciolonel Mak over 6f at Doncaster, travelling strongly after missing the kick before weakening inside the last to be beaten just over 5 lengths.
That run should have put him spot on, and he had a similar pipe opener last year before taking this contest off a mark of 89.
He went on land the Gosforth park Cup at Newcastle off 95 before finishing a fine 8th of 27 to Hoof It in the Stewards Cup at Goodwood.
The eight-year-old also put up a cracking effort to finish a 3/4 length 4th of 21 in the ultra competitive Portland at Doncaster off 100, and that form looks strong in the context of this contest
The handicapper has dropped him to a mark of 99 for this, and that looks workable given his strong form last season.
It is also significant that he has only once finished out of the frame in his second run back from a lay-off.
Second time up is clearly the time to catch him, and a fast run 5f is what he needs to be seen at his best.
He also has a decent draw in stall 9, and everything looks in place for a huge run.
Daily Sport recommended bet: 2pts each-way Ancient Cross (14/1 bet365, Boylesports, BetVictor – BOG)
