Exchequer
Exchequer did well to get as close as he did in the six-furlong handicap at Haydock on Saturday, he did best of those who raced towards the near side. Well backed all morning in a move that was continued on course, and which saw him sent off the 5/1 favourite, Richard Hannon's horse was always in the front rank and travelling well for Dane O'Neill. His rider did have to get after him from the two-furlong pole, however, as Brando travelled well in front on the far side, and he found plenty for pressure, he came away from the horses who raced towards the near side. But he just couldn't reel Brando back in, and he went down by three parts of a length in the end.
Exchequer is now 0-11 on turf, but he is 2-4 on all-weather, and you have to think that his first win on turf is not far off. He had put up a career-best on turf on his previous run, over seven furlongs at Haydock, when he chased a fast pace and just got run down late on by the progressive Peril. He was up 2lb for that, but he is up just another 1lb for Saturday's run, which looks lenient. There should be a decent handicap in him now off his mark of 89.
He seems equally adept over six and seven furlongs, a stiff six or an easy seven suits him well, and he goes well on easy ground and on fast ground and on Polytrack. Hopefully his cover isn't blown now, because he will be of interest wherever he goes next.
26th September 2015
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