Northumberland Plate: Synergism Selected as Each-Way Tip
Steve Jones has identified Synergism as a strong each-way contender in the Pitmen's Derby, officially the Jenningsbet Northumberland Plate, at Newcastle on Saturday. The race, run over 2 miles on the all-weather, demands stamina, and Jones believes Sir Mark Prescott's runner fits the bill. Synergism won twice over a similar distance at Kempton last year and was narrowly beaten by half a length in a competitive Racing League handicap over course and distance. That form has worked out well, and the horse warmed up for this historic prize with a win at Lingfield on his seasonal debut. Jones recommends a 1pt each-way bet at 14-1, with several bookies paying out on six places.
Consolation Race: St Faz in the Northumberland Vase
In the Jenningsbet Northumberland Vase, the consolation race for the main event, Jones fancies St Faz at 2.40. The horse boasts an exceptional record on the all-weather, with his only defeat on artificial surfaces coming when badly hampered at the start in a hot Lingfield contest on Good Friday. Despite recent turf runs, St Faz is expected to relish the return to the all-weather. Jones advises a 1pt each-way bet at 14-1, with a couple of firms offering six places.
Chipchase Stakes: Paborus Overpriced at 12-1
Earlier on the card, Jones highlights Paborus in the Group 3 Jenningsbet Chipchase Stakes at 2.10. The horse has not raced for exactly a year, finishing third in the Group 3 Criterion Stakes over 7f at York. However, Paborus has a strong record when returning from a break, and his travelling style suggests a stiff 6f could be ideal. His only all-weather run resulted in an impressive Southwell victory. Jones considers him overpriced at 12-1 and recommends a 1pt each-way bet, with several bookies offering four places.
York: Hanney Girl Best Bet at 22-1
At York, Jones selects Hanney Girl as the best bet in the 2.25 race. She ran well from a wide draw in a similar contest over track and trip in May. A more favorable stall and faster ground are expected to suit her. Jones advises a 1pt each-way bet at 22-1, with Sky Bet paying five places.
