Newcastle (AW) 2:45 Result

Yordan is the standout on form: a "21" record shows a debut second followed by a maiden win, from a powerful Kevin Ryan yard that specialises in placing precocious sprint types to good effect. He's bred for speed (Starman ex Shamardal-line dam), fresh off a recent run 17 days ago so clearly fit and progressing, and steps up in class off the back of a win which is a positive sign rather than a worry given the calibre of this novice field. None of the others has actually won - best of the rest on official figures is Brash (OR64) and Ennoble (OR71), but their form (773242 and 736-U5) shows plenty of workmanlike efforts without scoring, and Ennoble's U (unseated/fell) note is a concern. Alpha Platoon and Joud both have solid-looking form figures (74, 3-4) but come with lengthy layoffs (75 and 91 days) which is a real query fitness-wise for first-time-since sprinters. Rake Lane's 755 figures are moderate and he's already 4 and unproven at this level. The market is likely to respect Yordan's proven scoring ability and the powerful stable, and I side with that view - he looks the most complete and progressive type in a race full of maidens who haven't yet crossed the line first. Draw 5 is fine for the straight 6f. Confidence is high but not maximal given it's a competitive novice field with several unexposed sorts.