South Aussie form student Heath Pope believes the bookies have got it wrong in the Grand Syndicates Handicap (1550m) at Morphettville Parks on Saturday.
Pope is siding with veteran galloper Moscow Red which he rates at $8 and is currently being offered at better than double the rated price.
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Here are this week’s tips.
LUCKY BLUE (Race 3 No 3) On the back-up after last week’s terrific effort when gunned down late this same track and distance. If anything, this appears fractionally easier while he again maps ideally, settling up on the pace. The prospect of a track offering more give than last week’s soft (5) is another big tick. He’s again been totally underestimated by the market because he comes from a small atable. Rates a good play at $5. BET: EACH-WAY
NOBLE MAGNATE (Race 5 No 4) He took a couple of runs to find his feet this prep however it’s no coincidence that his form has improved since the rain has started arriving. He did everything wrong last start yet still managed to get within 1-1/4 lengths of all the way winner and favourite here Klabel. The previous placing was behind the in-form, Celsius Star and that form also reads well for this. The huge plus here is he now reunites with his usual rider Jake Toeroek. Expect him to settle a lot closer here and be a big improver. Rates at $4. BET: WIN
TURFITT (Race 6 No 8) This mare finds it hard to win however it’s impossible to ignore her past couple of honest performances and a repeat performance will give this a huge shake. Narrowly missed the placings when beaten just 1-1/2 lengths last start in a much tougher Benchmark 82 contest which reads terrific for this. Maps to race closer to the speed this time doing no work from the inside draw. Also noting all three of her wins have come on rain affected tracks which she is certain to get here. Just needs an ounce of luck and she is capable of being in the finish again. The favourite Another Ponzi will prove hard to beat however I’m happy to oppose him considering he was well beaten at his only wet track start. Turfitt rates at $5. BET: EACH-WAY
MOSCOW RED (Race 8 No 1) Rising 10-year-old mare however if her run two starts back is any indication when placing behind Manhattan Times over unsuitably short 1200m then she is in this right up to her ears. Last start was a complete forgive effort, enduring a torrid run throughout. Also note she placed in a Listed Murray Bridge Cup that reads well for this moderate benchmark 68 handicap. Steps up to her ideal trip for the first time this prep and she is an absolute swimmer. The market has totally underestimated her early on and I have to play on a 1/3 basis. Rates an $8 chance. BET: EACH-WAY