3 minute read

Unbeaten three-year-old Shadow Of War appears well placed to notch up the hat-trick when due to contest the final event at Singapore this evening.

Trained by Alvin Tan, Shadow Of War already possesses quite the "boom" having been installed the $1.20 favourite on debut.

Although wanting to do a bit wrong the son of Sebring proved too classy scoring by just over a length.

Stepping up sharply in grade at his next outing, Shadow Of War would again prove too strong when saluting easily by close to two lengths.

Improving five pounds on his debut success, the clock also backed up the strength of his performance.

Rising 3kg off the back of that effort, Shadow Of War admittedly has to take another step however he appears more than capable.

When assessing Timeform weight adjusted ratings, little separates both he and rival Super Warrior, however Shadow Of War looks to possess more scope at this stage.

The decision to remain at a 1000m should suit and while drawn a touch awkwardly, he possesses enough tactical speed to overcome this hindrance.

Leading jockey Manoel Nunes sticks aboard and boasts a very impressive record with the Alvin Tan stable.

From 57 rides, Nunes is striking at 33 per cent and it is always a big tick anytime the two combine.

Last start Shadow Of War had 28 days between runs, while now he only has 14 — this suggests he also remains open to improvement from a fitness perspective.

While two starts isn't a large sample size, given what we have seen, Shadow Of War certainly appears above average.

Alvin Tan has enjoyed a great run of form this season and Shadow Of War appears well on-track to continue this trend, he should prove very hard to beat.

The Dan Meagher trained Super Warrior has also displayed good ability in his five starts and looms as a major threat.

Another chasing the hat-trick, Super Warrior comes into this off an impressive all the way win and has since trialled well in the lead up.

The wide draw is a concern, however much like Shadow Of War, Super Warrior possesses enough early speed to press forward and cross.

As a result, Shadow Of War could land in a stalking position with Super Warrior attempting to lead throughout.

On their last start performances little separates the two and race tactics are likely to be crucial.

Apprentice Erasmus Aslam links aboard for the first time and if able to pinch a few sectionals, Super Warrior could prove very hard to get past in the straight.

These two appear set to fight it out, in what should be a good competitive contest.

The Shane Baertschiger trained Red Dawn was no match for Shadow Of War last start however he now meets the latter on better terms and cannot be taken lightly.

A winner of four of his 26 starts, Red Dawn has placed on a further seven occasions and although drawn out, he is more than capable and has to be kept safe.

Of the rest the Leslie Khoo trained Divergent appears the next in line as while prone to mixing his form, he rates well on best form and cannot be taken lightly.

Good luck and happy punting.