Newcastle (AW) 3:15 Result

Lessay is fresh from a strong recent win (form 507261) and comes into this race in good form off a break of 66 days, suggesting the trainer has him primed. The addition of cheekpieces (p) for this run could sharpen him up further. Racing off a relatively low OR of 61, he looks well treated compared to the likes of Havanagreattime (75) and Havana Prince (74), who are both dropping back from higher-grade form and whose recent efforts (709-09 and -31008) look inconsistent. Lessay's trainer Patrick Morris also has Tasever in this race, showing confidence in the yard's runners at this venue. The step up to 7f suits, as his last winning effort came at a similar trip, and the gelding looks capable of building on his recent placed effort. While the front two in the market (Havanagreattime, Havana Prince) hold obvious claims on pure ability, both are unproven to be fully fit and reliable on this surface/trip combination recently, making them vulnerable favourites. Lessay's improving profile, fresh legs, and positive market money (implied by cheekpiece addition) make him the value play in a competitive, workmanlike handicap.