The 16:48 at Pontefract is a competitive Class 5 handicap over the stiff five furlongs, and much of the race revolves around the form of the course-and-distance contest run here eight days ago. Hover On The Wind came out on top that day, with Betweenthesticks and Dream Deal dead-heating for second, but there are reasons to believe the placings may not be set in stone this time.

Hover On The Wind is the obvious starting point. He made full use of his falling mark when winning over this track and trip last time and remains a major player despite carrying a 5lb penalty. He handles the ground, is effective over the distance and has already shown he can win from similar marks. However, at the head of the market, he looks more fairly priced than generously priced.

Betweenthesticks has arguably the strongest statistical profile in the race. He is a dual course-and-distance winner and HorseRaceBase angles show excellent Pontefract form, including strong track, track-and-distance and class records. He rarely needs excuses around here and should again be positioned close enough to strike. From a reliability perspective, he is the safest runner in the field.

The value, though, may lie with Dream Deal. He finished alongside Betweenthesticks behind Hover On The Wind last time despite not getting a clear run. With better luck in running, he could easily have finished closer, and possibly even reversed the form. His distance record is also strong, and the likely honest pace should suit his ability to travel just behind the speed and finish off strongly.

Sea Her Excel is the main improver. As a lightly raced three-year-old, she has more scope than most of these older handicappers, but she may face pace pressure if trying to go forward again. Brave Empire also has ability, but the drop back to five furlongs is a concern, even on a stiff track like Pontefract.

The race shape suggests a solid gallop, with Sea Her Excel, Hover On The Wind and Storm Call all capable of racing prominently. That could make life difficult for those needing an uncontested lead and bring the stronger finishers into play.

Overall, this looks like a rematch between the three principals from last week. Hover On The Wind is respected, Betweenthesticks is the most solid profile, but Dream Deal appeals most at the prices given his troubled passage last time.

Selection: Dream Deal
Main danger: Betweenthesticks
Most likely winner: Hover On The Wind
Best value: Dream Deal
Interesting outsider: Dandy Dinmont