3 minute read

The Fred Kersley trained Power Punch was only narrowly beaten last start and now appears well placed to make amends, when contesting the fifth event at Ascot.

Stepping out for just his eighth start, the son of Fath has displayed sharp improvement this preparation, having broken through for his maiden win at Pinjarra two back.

Heavily supported to bring up back to back victories last start, Power Punch proved very game in defeat, when flashing home late, only to be narrowly denied.

Unable to reel in the Simon Miller trained Shalo, Power Punch still improved 11 pounds.

In a race which doesn't look to possess a lot of depth, Power Punch only has to repeat the level of his last start performance, to be right in the finish.

From the middle draw, he is likely to settle a bit closer to the speed this time around as Daniel Staeck won't want to concede a big a start, as last time.

Currently installed a 2-1 chance appears more than a worthy gamble, as if priced using predictive ratings, he is closer to an even money shot.

His closing sectionals were very impressive last start and he should prove very hard to hold out on the weekend.

The Jim Taylor trained Flying Roar returned in great order last start and appears poised to bring up back to back victories, in the second event.

Jumping away well from the inside draw, the son of So Secret stalked tearaway leader Ignition, before ambling up at the turn and racing away for a dominant win.

Recording slick time over the 1200m journey, Flying Roar returned a near peak performance and is expected to take the next step on Saturday.

In the small field there doesn't appear a great deal of speed and he is likely to hold the rail and lead.

Currently installed a 6-4 chance appears more than fair, as while lining up against a few progressive types (King River and Pernella Miss) on exposed form, we have him installed the even money favourite.

BET OF THE DAY (1): Race 5 #8 Power Punch @ $3.00

BET OF THE DAY (2): Race 2 #1 Flying Roar @ $2.50