An EBF Maiden Auction Stakes over 7f 214y on good to firm ground. Supporters of Firestarter have had their fingers burned a few times with his somewhat errant displays. However, for all of his wanton ways this son of Cockney Rebel has a fair level of ability. Elsworth's charge has gone close in a number of fair contests and this auction event is a drop in class, which should make life a little easier.
The main concern is whether this bay colt will be on his best behaviour. Brighton can be an unforgiving track for any wayward tendencies. However, he has a leading chance today.
Saeed Bin Suroor has been left in the shadow by Mahmood Al Zarooni who has been in flying form this season. At first glance, Expert Fighter didn't seem to achieve a great deal on his debut at Haydock when beaten a number of length. However, the form of that race has been franked a number of times and by all accounts a competitve heat. Bred in the purple, this colt by Dubai Destination is a half-brother to a Group 2 winner. Bin Suroor's two-year-olds are worthy of note when fancied on their second start and a fair each way bet if prices allow.
Andrew Balding's juveniles have been in decent form and Renegotiate ran well on his second start. After showing little on debut, he was sent off a 33/1 chance at Newmarket and for much of the race looked as though he would belie those odds with a gutsy display. This son of Trade Fair travelled with purpose and only gave way in the closing stages. He is likely to hold every chance but may struggle to finish in a similar fashion to last time out.
Richard Hannon has a respectable strike rate with his juveniles at Brighton. Golden Jubilee has been relatively fancied on both starts but disappointed. This £72,000 purchase was fancied last time at Salisbury, which may be significant. It could be the case he simply didn't act on the soft ground and reason why this youngster is worth a second chance. On balance, I would rather take a watching brief but it may be unwise to write-off this runner, especially with Hughes in the saddle.
The rest of the field need to improve to beat the major fancies.
Conclusion: Firestarter has a fighting chance of winning although after so many attempts one begins to question whether this will be his day. He has a leading chance. Expert Fighter comes from a race that is working out very well and could improve a good deal for that initial race. A fair bet if achieving an each way price. Golden Jubilee could be a danger if failing on soft ground last time. A watching brief but an opponent to respect especially if backed. Renegotiate is likely to travel well but may tire at the finish.
HCE: ''An easy victory for Expert Fighter who looks pretty talented in the racing department. Siouxperhero showed good pace but had little left at the finish. Firestarter was wayward and not interested in doing his utmost to win.''