Paul O’Brien is back with three tips for Friday across three meetings, starting at Wolverhampton...
Artisan Dancer (1.32pm, Wolverhampton) @ 2/1
Artisan Dancer was fourth last time out in a tight race at Lingfield on February 4, where the top four fought it out in the final furlong and finished within a length of each other.
Racing this time over a shorter distance of 1m 5f 219y, from which he has had greater success, and is reacquainted with jockey Jason Hart, who rode him to glory on his penultimate start at Newcastle on January 27 where I tipped him for victory. On that basis, everything points to him being able to confirm his form and beat rival Aqwaam.
Take Me To Church (5.30pm, Dundalk) @ 11/4
This three-year-old colt made all the running to win last time out on November 1 at this Irish course and always finds more when asked. Second place on that day was Anvika, who has gone on to win subsequently.
Take Me To Church is up against stiff competition from Emerald Eclipse at this slightly longer distance of 7f, but if he gets off to a good start should be able to deliver back-to-back wins.
Flowering (5.45pm, Chelmsford City) @ 9/1
This three-year-old filly was sired by 2018 Derby winner Masar but is yet to achieve her potential. She was last of three in her most recent outing at Kempton Park on January 22. Could have got a distant second that day but lost half a step in the final furlong when switching the whip to the other side.
The winner of that race, Amiwithani, has won again since in easy fashion. It wouldn't take much of an improvement for Flowering to overcome the disappointment of her last outing and win here on her second handicap appearance.
