TimeformBlog

Clean Bowled has beaten Crowining Star (13:40) on his last two outings and there is no reason why he cannot repeat that feat in the opening race at Lingfield this afternoon. Clean Bowled has improved in recent weeks, joining Roger Curtis from Alan McCabe prior to his latest start, and, if reproducing the form of his last two victories in claimers, he looks booked for the hat-trick. Clean Bowled made the running last time, travelling well for much of the way and, in a small-field affair, he should be able to dictate the tempo once again. He looked in control from a long way out last time and was full value for the victory, something that will definitely hold him in good stead this afternoon given it is his third race in just over two weeks.

Avoncreek (17:30) demonstrated an improved level of form to win a six-furlong handicap Wolverhampton last month and can go close in a similar event again this afternoon. That performance came after a three-month absence and there is every possibility that Avoncreek can replicate that performance, especially with his stable continuing in good order. Avoncreek benefitted from a strong early pace last time, travelling well in rear and, with a few likely to guarantee the race is run at a solid tempo, he can take advantage in what is a very winnable race.

Mark Johnston tends to do very well in all-weather maidens at this time of year and Hikma (19:00) could be one to add to the trainer's list of successes in recent weeks. Hikma was totally clueless on debut, holding her head high as she folded in the closing stages, but she should improve enormously for that experience and her rivals are yet to prove they have notable ability. She is a close relation to some smart performers and, given that Street Cry is her sire, her first tatse of a plytrack surface isn't expected to prove a problem. Daryl Byrne takes a useful 5 lb off her back and the pair combine to form our bet of the day on Friday.

Back Clean Bowled @ 1.82 in the 13:40 at Lingfield
Back Avoncreek @ 6.0 in the 17:30 at Wolverhampton
Back Hikma @ 3.5 in the 19:00 at Wolverhampton

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