DE KOCK CAN PROVIDE 2 BANKERS

Both his imports looks special

Trainer Mike de Kock has his yard in good form and he has three runners at the Vaal today, of which two could be hard to beat.

Irish import Martha’s Vineyard proved just in need of the experience in her debut and was quick to learn, scoring a good win second time out. Both those runs were over 1200m at the Vaal, the same trip she travels in Race 7, a FM 68 Handicap. Anthony Delpech was in the saddle for both those runs and partners her again.

She could be a banker for all exotic bets.

In Race 4, a Maiden Plate over 1400m, stable companion Hakeem is another banker bet. The Australian import showed promise on debut, when runner-up to very highly regarded Orpheus, from the Mike Azzie yard.

Hakeem showed good pace over this course and distance in his first start and should know more about his job this time.

Azzie has a line against Hakeem with his runner, Llandudno, but it is hard to believe that this one is stronger than Orpheus. Work rider Francis Semela is one of the better work riders and he could get punters off to a winning start with Unchained Melody in the opening race.

This Mogok gelding had good form but was a bit disappointing last time out when only sixth. However, that race was over 1200m and he was wearing blinkers for the first time. Dropped back to 1000m, he must be the one to beat.

On the whole his rivals are moderate although perhaps juvenile Darkest Hour is capable of improvement. He might be value for Swingers and Exactas.

Runners from the Louis Goosen yard tend to improve on their debuts so it could pay to side with Fancifilly in Race 2, a Maiden Plate over 1000m.

This daughter of What a Winter showed pace on debut against winners so her sixth place last month was full of merit. She should know more about it this time and it is worth noting she attracted betting support that day.