Upset a long-odds on favourite at Wolverhampton (6f) and bred to be effective at this trip. Had a 71-rated rival 12L adrift that day so sets a high standard in this contest.
Shamardal colt. First foal; dam was a winner over 1m4f+ over in France including at Listed level and is a half-sister to Dartmouth and Manatee. Has shown some ability despite being green, but has also looked in need of further and easier ground.
Much improved at Dundalk last time in a race lacking depth. The runner-up was rated 100, but it would be unwise to take the form literally given his subsequent run and the fact she was never competitive.
Karl Burke appears to have found a good opportunity for PLAY MATE to follow up her recent Wolverhampton success when accounting for a heavily backed favourite. Gateway will have benefitted from his two starts having looked green but it is surprising to see him dropped in trip given his pedigree. The remainder look out of their depth.