A fascinating five-runner nursery in which all five runners have scope for improvement, but the balance of evidence points towards the lightly raced Jumeirah Storm and Ten Clarets.

Jumeirah Storm has done little wrong in two starts. His debut at Salisbury was better than the bare result after meeting trouble before finishing strongly, and he built on that with a professional victory over this course and distance earlier this month. He travelled well, quickened to lead inside the final furlong and kept on strongly to the line. An opening mark of 81 looks fair rather than generous, but he shapes like a colt capable of progressing beyond it.

Ten Clarets has yet to win but has produced two solid efforts in novice company. His York debut has worked out respectably and he was only denied by a neck at Ayr when strongly fancied. The application of first-time cheekpieces could sharpen him further and a mark of 79 gives him every chance if they have the desired effect. In a small field, his tactical speed may prove an asset.

Shadow King is the highest-rated runner on official figures, but he has to concede weight all round from a mark of 84. His Kempton novice success was creditable, although his subsequent defeat in a small Class 2 contest leaves the impression that his handicap mark fully reflects his current ability. First-time blinkers add an interesting angle, and if allowed an easy lead he could prove difficult to reel in.

Rhodes Runner has already shown useful handicap form when runner-up at Kempton and receives the fillies’ allowance. Her earlier third in a strong Doncaster maiden also reads well, but she appears more exposed than the two market leaders and may need them to underperform to gain her first success.

Attack Attack is the outsider but arrives after her best effort when third in a Yarmouth novice at 100/1. An opening mark of 72 gives her room to improve, although she still needs a sizeable step forward to trouble the principals.

With only five runners declared, race tactics are likely to be crucial. Shadow King is the most obvious pace angle and Ten Clarets is unlikely to be far away, while Jumeirah Storm has shown he is effective when delivered later. If the pace is only steady, tactical speed could be decisive; if they go a stronger gallop, Jumeirah Storm’s finishing effort may prove the telling factor.

Verdict

This looks an above-average Class 4 nursery without an obvious handicap blot. The market has identified the right horses, but Jumeirah Storm just shades preference on the strength of his progressive profile and proven course form. Ten Clarets rates the chief danger, with Shadow King respected if the first-time blinkers unlock a little more improvement.

Predicted finish

1. Jumeirah Storm
2. Ten Clarets
3. Shadow King
4. Rhodes Runner
5. Attack Attack