Our expert racing tipster Steve Jones has meticulously analysed the Super Saturday card at Newbury, identifying four standout each-way betting opportunities for punters. With testing ground conditions expected to play a pivotal role, Jones has pinpointed horses that thrive in the mud and offer genuine value in the competitive fields.
MILLDAM: The William Hill Hurdle Fancy
MILLDAM (3.20) emerges as the prime selection for the valuable William Hill Hurdle. This race is anticipated to be a gruelling slog, with heavy ground likely to expose any weaknesses among the runners. Milldam is perfectly suited to these conditions, having secured victories in his last four outings on deep, testing surfaces.
His recent fifth-place finish behind Hot Fuss at Windsor three weeks ago was a commendable effort, especially considering the track was too sharp for his liking. Ridden less prominently than usual, he expended significant energy to get into a challenging position, which told in the closing stages. The demanding nature of Newbury should suit him far better.
Adding to his appeal, talented conditional jockey Isabelle Ryder, claiming a valuable 5lbs, takes the ride for the first time for trainer Jamie Snowden. Steve Jones recommends a 1-point each-way bet at 18-1, with most bookmakers paying out on the first five places.
Early Card Value Picks
KOCKTAIL BLEU in the Novices' Hurdle
In the opening novices' hurdle at 1.00, KOCKTAIL BLEU appears significantly overpriced. This Chris Gordon-trained youngster chased home the smart Baron Noir on good ground at Kempton, after previously failing to stay the longer 2m4f trip on softer ground at Newbury's pre-Christmas meeting.
Today's 2-mile distance on testing ground should be ideal for him, allowing his stamina and ability to handle the conditions to come to the fore. Jones advises a 1-point each-way wager at 12-1.
KYNTARA Ready to Grind It Out
KYNTARA (1.35) is another selection poised to benefit from the heavy ground. He has not encountered his preferred conditions in three runs this season since returning to hurdles after a spell over fences last year.
His runner-up finish in the Pertemps Network Final at the 2024 Cheltenham Festival marks him as well-handicapped. A front-runner at his best, he excels when grinding out victories. The ability to handle the ground and stay the distance is crucial here, and several leading contenders have question marks over these aspects. A 1-point each-way bet at 9-1 is the recommendation.
Closing the Card with HALF HOPING
The Listed bumper at 4.30 features HALF HOPING, who must command serious attention. Beaten narrowly by No Walkover, another runner today, on his debut at Chepstow, he bounced back with an easy victory at Fontwell on Boxing Day.
This well-bred five-year-old is open to further improvement. His Christmas win came over a slightly longer distance, ensuring stamina should not be an issue. Trainer Nick Gifford also has his team in excellent form, adding confidence to the selection. Steve Jones suggests a 1-point each-way investment at 12-1.
In summary, Steve Jones' Value Scope analysis provides four carefully considered each-way tips for Newbury's Super Saturday, focusing on horses that relish the testing conditions and offer attractive prices for astute punters.
