Blinkered Xiphos can help out

Frikkie-Greyling 格雷林

Punters face a tricky card on the poly at Hollywoodbets Greyville next Wednesday, dominated by low-grade handicaps. The opening maidens, however, offer some clearer opportunities.

In Race 1, Pinetti drops back to a more suitable trip after failing as favourite when tried further. Grand Force is consistent and well in with a 4kg claimer, while Captain Frank can improve from a better draw. Senor Resfrio also showed promise last time and could feature.

Race 2 may hinge on Xiphos, who improves with first-time blinkers after running well on the poly. He renews rivalry with Sovereign Command, a long-time maiden who finished ahead of him last time, but the headgear may tilt things Xiphos’s way.

Capricious Miss looks the one in Race 3 after a strong poly debut, though Love The USA and Baltic Assayer are dangers. Ada Lovelace also has claims after improving on her second start.

The Pick 6 opens with Next Of Kin, who responded well to cheekpieces, and Takeyourbestshot, consistent but drawn wide. Race 5 is wide open, though El Rey Viene appeals back on poly, while Send Me and Run To Rio are threats.

In Race 6, apprentice riders take centre stage. Spectacular is well in with a claimer, but little separates Star Of The Future and The Wolf. Shiny Bob could benefit from James Lihaba’s experience.

Race 7 looks competitive with Kanaal Skater progressive, Super Fast due a change of fortune, and Preemptive Strike reliable. In the eighth, Mojo Man brings strong blinkered form, while Rainbow Reward and Bourbon Warrior are key players.

The finale may fall to Yannakis, who finally seems over past issues. Lou Lou The Legend, Catavar, and newcomer United Nation add further intrigue.