A competitive six-runner field goes to post for the 20:40 at Wolverhampton, a Class 6 handicap over 1m6f on Tapeta, and the race appears to revolve around one horse: The Craftymaster.

Tony Carroll’s six-year-old arrives in the form of his life after producing a devastating display over a longer trip at this venue just nine days ago. Sent off at 3/1, he powered clear to score by 14 lengths, posting the strongest recent Racing Post Rating in the field and confirming once again his affection for Wolverhampton. With four previous course victories already on his record, the track clearly brings out the best in him.

The obvious concern is the 5lb penalty he must carry for that emphatic success, but even allowing for the extra weight, his latest figure leaves him with a clear edge over his rivals. In a race lacking abundant early pace, he may also enjoy a favourable tactical setup if allowed to dictate matters from the front.

The chief threat could come from Havachoc, who has been one of the most consistent performers in this grade throughout the season. A three-time all-weather winner earlier in the year, he arrives after a solid runner-up effort at Beverley on Friday and looks certain to appreciate the return to a staying trip. Billy Loughnane takes the ride and another prominent showing looks highly likely.

For those searching for a horse with improvement potential rather than established form, Mick The Hat is the interesting candidate. Ralph Beckett’s three-year-old has only had five starts and showed promise when third on his handicap debut at Ffos Las. His latest run at Wolverhampton was disappointing, but younger, less exposed horses can often improve sharply in low-grade staying handicaps, and his connections command respect.

Veteran mare Kingston Sunflower brings a different profile to the race. Most of her recent efforts have come over hurdles, where she has remained competitive, and she is capable of running well back on the Flat. However, at nine years of age she appears vulnerable to younger rivals with stronger recent all-weather credentials.

V Power is another course-and-distance winner in the lineup and has twice scored over this track and trip. While those victories prove his suitability for conditions, his recent form has lacked the same sparkle, and he needs to bounce back to challenge the principals.

Completing the field is Last Flight, an unexposed three-year-old filly from the James Ferguson yard. She shaped with some promise when fifth on handicap debut over 1m4f here last month and the step up in distance may unlock improvement. Nevertheless, she still has plenty to prove on the figures.

From a pace perspective, The Craftymaster appears likely to secure a handy position and potentially control the race. In a small field, tactical advantages can be decisive, and that scenario only strengthens his claims.

Verdict

The Craftymaster sets the standard on recent form and looks well placed to follow up his impressive course victory despite the penalty. Havachoc rates the most solid danger, while Mick The Hat is the runner with the greatest scope for improvement.

Predicted 1-2-3

1. The Craftymaster
2. Havachoc
3. Mick The Hat

Best Bet

The Craftymaster – Win

Value Angle

Havachoc – Each-Way / Forecast