There has been a massive early plunge on Global Leader in the 8.15 at Wolverhampton tonight, and as a result Very First Blade has drifted out to a tempting 7/1 and makes plenty of each-way appeal.
The gelding last scored over 6f at Southwell last June where he beat Upper Lambourn by a neck off 49 when trained by Mark Brisbourne.
He went on to finish runner-up on his next start over tonight’s course and distance off 52 in a class 6 affair and now gets into this contest off his last winning mark of 49.
That gives him every chance at the weights having been shaping really well of late without quite getting his head in front.
Now in the care of Mick Mullineaux, the five-year-old has finished in the first four in five of his last seven runs and ran well last time out over 7f at Southwell when beaten 2 lengths by an unexposed sort who was well-head of the handicapper.
The pair pulled 3 1/2 lengths clear of the third to give the form a solid look in the context of this contest, and Very First Blade looks sure to give it his best shot to go one better in this.
There is little doubt that he deserves to get his head in front and is handicapped to do so, and although fully exposed compared to the heavily backed favourite he is a solid sort he can be relied upon to give his running.
Daily Sport recommended bet: 2pts each-way Very First Blade (7/1 bet365, Paddy Power – BOG)
