8:00 Doncaster Tips

Winner at Redcar last backend who has shown gradual improvement this season and wasn't beaten far in a bunch finish at Thirsk on Tuesday. Should go well this evening.

A start to last year with finishes of 10th of 15, 12th of 13 and 5th of 10 ??' beaten nine, nine and five lengths respectively ??' saw him dropped 5 lb and put away for a 56-day break. He came back off a mark of 74 and won over this course and distance by three lengths in a higher class than this. This year has seen him record an 11th of 13 and a 10th of 16, dropped from 73 to 68 before having 65 days off track. He’s now eligible for this 0-70, which marks the lowest grade he’s run in, and if he can produce that form from last year he’s a big player here.

He lines up off an official rating of 67??'which sits a handy few pounds below his last winning mark. While it is well worth noting that eight of his nine career victories have historically come on all-weather surfaces, his recent turf exploits show he handles a sound, quick summer grass strip perfectly fine. ​With regular tactical partner Darragh Keenan booked to take the reins from stall 9, Dark Side Thunder is beautifully drawn on the outside to track the pace. If Keenan can find a smooth bit of cover before unleashing his challenge inside the final furlong, this veteran has the raw back-class to completely capitalize on his mark and reward each-way value hunters at an appealing 15/2 price tag.

Both career wins have been at Newcastle, with the latest being on the penultimate start in May. Ran well at Chester last time and holds an each-way chance.

This gelding can prove to be well handicapped if able to transfer his best all-weather form to the turf. The form of the yard gives cause for optimism.