4:15 Chelmsford -
6f £20 Free Bets At totesport.com Novice Stakes (Class 5) (2yo)
Going: Standard
Runners: 10
Just two horse with significant entries: Brandy Spirt & Fares Kodiac.
Brandy Spirit was dropped in the deep end when competing at Class 2 on debut when making his debut at Newcastle over 6f. This gelding is a son of Charm Spirit went off a 33-1 shot after a few piranhas nibbled it back from 50-1. On the face of it, Brandy Spirit had a mountain to climb. His saving grace may have been that he wasn't burdened by the win penalty like Fares Kodiac who was just a half-length behind. Mick Easterby's charge was a little slow from the stalls but soon made stylish headway and unlucky in the sense of being short of room. However, he showed gritty determination to run on for a deserved third place. That first effort detailed a horse of some ability. There should be ample improvement. As with all bets, whether you want to jump in at odds of 1/1f is another matter.
Fares Kodiac is definitely one of the best two-year-olds in Marco Botti's stable. This March foal has been entered for a Listed race. He won by a breath on debut and then raced at higher class on both second and third start. As mentioned, he was just half a length behind Brandy Spirit last time out. There is a chance he will appreciate this turning course rather than the straight they met last start.
Conclusion: This looks out of the two favourites (no surprise) but neither horse offers much value. If they got stuck into one, or the third favourite is backed, it may make a better opportunity.
Fares Kodia 9/4f 1st
Brandy Spirit 9/4f 2nd
Note: A nice performance from Fares Kodiac who won under a penalty. I was correct in thinking this turning course would suit more than it would for Brandy Spirit, who was off the pace and run on with purpose.