3 minute read

A distinct drop in grade leaves the Michael Freedman trained Desert Fox well placed to return to the winner's stall in the eighth event at Singapore.

Having been outclassed at both starts back from a break, the son of Not A Single Doubt appears far better placed this evening.

A victor of four of his 16 starts, Desert Fox has displayed good ability throughout his career, placing on a further seven occasions.

At his best he does hold a class edge over his rivals and while rising four-and-a-half kilograms at the weights, he is clearly capable.

In five attempts on the polytrack he has won three times and has placed in nine of 12 attempts over this trip.

Leading rider Corey Brown sticks aboard and has placed in eight of his 10 attempts aboard the four-year-old.

Brown is enjoying a good run of form of late, headlined by his victory aboard Quechua in last Sunday's Group 1 Singapore Gold Cup.

Brown possesses a handy record for the Freedman camp and is expected to press forward aboard the gelding.

With little speed engaged, Desert Fox appears to get the gun run from the inside stall.

Admittedly he has been yet to fire this time in, however he hasn't contested a race of this level since February.

On that occasion, Desert Fox saluted by three lengths at this track and trip.

With form around the likes of both War Affair and El Milagro last preparation, Desert Fox can bounce right back to winning form.

Using Timeform weight adjusted ratings he appears well placed and should prove hard to beat.

Last start winner Cheyenne Warrior appears the main danger, following his return to form last Sunday.

Settled towards the rear, the son of Not A Single Doubt really impressed in the run home, when sweeping down the outside to salute in the shadows of the post.

Successful in recording a new career peak, if able to repeat that level of performance, he looks to hold solid claims in this event.

From the awkward draw, Cheyenne Warrior is likely to settle in the back half of the field, before being produced to make his run in the straight.

His mediocre record on the polytrack (placed 2/11) is of some concern, however he has won three of five over this trip and must be respected.

The Steven Burridge trained Boomarang Deluxe is clearly better over further, however his form prior to a break was very impressive and must be kept safe.

Placing at five of his last eight starts, the son of Dane Shadow continued to raise the bar last time in and has won fresh previously.

Boomarang Deluxe has placed in four of six attempts on the polytrack and is expected to settle just off the speed from the favourable draw.

It is likely his rivals will prove too slick over the six furlongs, however he must be included in the multiples.

Of the rest, former Malaysian based Dragon Dynasty appears the next best.

His Singapore debut held plenty of merit and the engagement of Danny Beasley appears key.

His latest trial was very good and cannot be taken lightly.

Good luck and happy punting.