3 minute read

Sam King returns with two selections at Newcastle on Monday…

DC Cogent posted an excellent effort when runner-up on debut and he appears to have every chance of going one spot better in the Gamble Responsibly At BetMGM EBF Novice Stakes at Newcastle (4.30).

The Bryan Smart-trained son of Washington DC kept on steadily defying all market expectations when running a now 85-rated rival to within a length and a quarter, leaving the impression that there would be plenty more to come in due course.

David Nolan has ridden three winners from his last five rides, and he can add to that impressive recent strike-rate by steering DC Cogent to victory for a trainer who has had plenty of juvenile success at this venue in recent seasons.

WIN - DC Cogent

Odds – 5/4

Later on the card, Arantes Nascimento looks interesting having attracted some early market support in the Boost Your Acca At BetMGM Handicap at 7.00.

Julie Camacho's three-year-old hasn't looked to be finishing out his races in recent outings but is undoubtedly well-treated, should the recent wind operation have had a positive effect.

A below-par sixth over this course and distance last time, he proved he was more than capable off this rating when finishing a credible fourth off 4lb higher over a mile here in October.

Talented apprentice Oisin McSweeney takes off a further valuable 3lb and from a potentially advantageous draw in stall seven, he looks worth taking a chance on at the current prices.

WIN - Arantes Nascimento

Odds – 5/1