Neil Morrice takes a look at three dark horses to keep an eye on in the UK. This week Neil looks at Andrew Balding's gelding DESERT COP, CRYSTAL DELIGHT from the William Jarvis stable and James Ferguson's gelding ENGELBERT.
ENGELBERT Newcastle, January 26th
On his first start since being gelded, ENGELBERT caught the attention of the Stewards as well as the wrath of those that had forced him down to 5/2 from an early morning 8/1 in this maiden.
After appearing to lose a good early position he ran through horses to finish just out of the money under what appeared tender handling. The Stewards ‘noted’ the explanation of his jockey Theo Ladd, that he was caught out by the muddling pace, but there is surely better to come from the Havana Grey gelding.
Engelbert is named after singer Engelbert Humperdinck whose smash hit ‘Please Release Me’ would not have looked out of place had it streamed from the tannoy.
DESERT COP Kempton Park, January 25th
DESERT COP went off as a 25/1 roughie for this novice, but though missing a beat at the gate was soon at the head of affairs. The beautifully-bred gelding kept going with such resolve that he was only worn down by odds-on Harry Magnus in the final 150 yards which represented a big step up from his quiet introduction at Southwell.
Andrew Balding shouldn’t have difficulty finding an opportunity for Desert Cop next time.
CRYSTAL DELIGHT Newcastle, January 25th
Horses In Training Sales purchase CRYSTAL DELIGHT looks a shrewd investment for William Jarvis on the basis of this sterling effort on handicap debut and against vastly more experienced foes.
The chestnut cruised into contention at the quarter pole but just when it seemed he had matters in control Zealot arrived with a wet sail to put him to the sword.
Crystal Delight nevertheless stayed on to ensure the principals finished clear, and should soon resume winning ways. He would probably prefer a stronger pace and to operate in a bigger field where he can obtain cover.
