Backtrade could take some pegging back if employing similar tactics as seen at Windsor last time when finishing a creditable third. This son of Holy Roman Emperor isn't the most imposing of horses: quite small & wiry but a speedy type who should be suited by this tight track. Balding commented that they held this juvenile in some regard. Perhaps he hasn't quite lived up to those expectations but in what looks to be a moderate handicap, from a low draw, this bay colt could well have many of these struggling to go the pace by half way. He was pretty much on a par with Amazing Storm & Sir Fredlot with 100m to go at Windsor before tiring in the latter stages. Perhaps Fortune went a shade too quick. However, that speed will not be lost round this course. This 6f will be easier to last than Windsor, which bodes well for a bold effort. A fair each way bet if odds allow, and certainly one to lay your stake at short odds in-running.
Flavius Victor is a good-looking colt and this drop back to 6f is likely to benefit. One for the short list, who could well be running on strongly at the line.
Conclusion: Fortune is likely to press on with Backtrade after showing good pace at Windsor. This juvenile looks ideally suited to this track and if able to coast for the first furlong or so before accelerating off the bend could take some catching. An ideal back to lay. If tiring last time was due to a slight lack of fitness, this would be a superb bet. On balance, Balding's juvenile most likely ran his race. A fair chance.
HCE: ''Backtrade needed to be a back to trade to have any hope of winning some cash. He travelled well for most but couldn't overpower Compton Target. Nice to see Hans Adielsson gain his first two-year-old winner, quite an attractive juvenile compared with the second.''