Sunderland Race Fields - 21st Nov 2023

It's all more than satisfactory stuff from BALLYKAY BUTTONS (trap 5) at the moment and another decent contribution is expected today. Beechwood Kate (trap 4) shapes as though she has the necessary ability to be threatening on her debut. Lady Linchpin (trap 1) has medal possibilities if things go to plan, whereas the rest may find it tough.

Every now and then something slips through the net and that could be the case with CIARANS DIVA (trap 3) as she should account for these in a true-run race. Ballyfore Kevin (trap 5) has had the bookies running for cover before and this represents a solid chance. Blueridgethunder (trap 6) may not have been able to hand-pick a better draw and it should help.

The chances of CLONDOUGLAS MAY (trap 2) are enhanced no end now the grader loosens the grip and it could be lights out for these rivals. Noirs Johnny (trap 5) looks to have a big part to play and is taken to chase the selection home. Evolution Elvis (trap 1) should be back in the winner's enclosure soon if not today.

The overall profile of MILLHOUSE WILLOW (trap 3) in against these rivals suggests she will be very popular amongst punters and hence her odds could be skinny. Autumn Defender (trap 1) has a taste for success and should run another solid race. Springside Lor (trap 2) is heavily reliant on making a swift getaway.

BLACK EYED TANA (trap 5) is one of the better bets at the meeting and there will be many prepared to have a dabble providing his odds aren't strangled. Noirs Jenny (trap 4) can attract support and would be dangerous if avoiding a whack or two early. Rafan Blue (trap 1) could sneak into the frame and boost the tricast payouts.

After much deliberating over this contest, the vote eventually went to CONNA LAUGHIL (trap 6), on the basis that she can prevail with a degree of luck. Hollywell Harvey (trap 3) has a shout timewise and should certainly be amongst the medals. Niffty Fifty (trap 4) can make a contribution but may ultimately have to settle for the minor prize.

The bookies are often cautious when it comes to HEAD LAD (trap 2) and no-one would begrudge them such an approach in this as he does look good. Amelias Delight (trap 1) is being backed with good reason and is a leading player for sure. Golden Angel (trap 3) can't be dismissed lightly, even though she may have to play a minor role.

CALTON JOE (trap 6) has the necessary tools to go about his business and he is fancied to rule supreme in this line-up. Young Gawney (trap 5) is due for improvement now her season is over - she's your danger! Pakistan Falcon (trap 1) is progressing nicely out of season so isn't out of it.

BUSTER LAW (trap 2) is certainly getting to grips with things here and has dropped enough hints to suggest victory here. Malibu Hondo (trap 5) can be in the thick of things from the outset but may ultimately find the pick too good. Marinas Mexico (trap 3) is keen to establish an identity if qualifying trials are an indication.

There's never usually much value offered up by the bookmakers about WADDOS PIEQUEEN (trap 1), but a win is a win as they say, and she looks too good for these. Go On Lainey (trap 4) certainly enters calculations on the balance of form and could upset the applecart. Brookwood Dan (trap 6) will get amongst them if managing an all-out attack from the start.

It's easy being encouraged by the recent win of OAKVIEW DIVA (trap 1) and a repeat performance could well be good enough to account for these. If Dream And Do (trap 3) can adopt the Pied Piper role, she could take some rubbing out. Yacht Azzam (trap 4) is in line for a medal, but it could just be the bronze this time.

ALLOWDALE SOLO (trap 6) is the one that takes the eye in this contest in the hope he can negotiate the opening turns without any serious grief. Hello Skippy (trap 1) is no mug and is fancied to be on the premises when it comes to the crunch. Imokilly Lisa (trap 2) commands respect on the downgrade.