Final Nudge

11th-Feb-2017

I am backing Final Nudge here. I think that he is over-priced at 6/1.

David Dennis’ horse was a progressive hurdler towards the end of last season, and he has resumed that progression this season over fences. Winner on his chasing bow at Fakenham in November, he was a little disappointing in each of his next two runs. However, he was good last time at Hereford on heavy ground, with cheekpieces fitted for the first time and ridden aggressively.

Racing prominently from flagfall, he came clear from the second last fence and posted an impressive victory from the well-supported Nansaroy.

The handicapper raised Final Nudge by 6lb for that, but that was fair, and it takes him back up to a mark of just 135, still 2lb lower than his mark over hurdles.

He is back up to two miles and seven furlongs today, which is good, he stayed on well at the end of two miles and five furlongs last time. He goes well on soft ground, and it is not surprising that he wears cheekpieces again today.

Vinnie Red has been well-backed this morning, and Vieux Lille and Lessons In Milan are both dangers, but Final Nudge is the value of the race in my book at the prices.

FINAL NUDGE WON (ADV 6/1, SP 5/1)