2:25 Haydock Tips

Three wins from his seven starts this year make Pole Star look the one to be with here. His first win came here at Haydock in May before winning a handicap here in July off 80 and following up at Yarmouth off 87. He was slightly disappointing when only 6th in the Melrose Handicap at York off a 3 lbs higher mark but was only beaten 5 lengths. His win at Yarmouth had been on soft, so Good to Firm at York might not have been ideal. Back on a softer surface, he looks a good EW bet with 4 places on offer.

Valiancy has run well, being placed at this distance in his last two runs, including a close 3rd to Pole Star over course and distance in July. On five pounds better terms, he should reverse that result.

Circus Of Rome is improving with every start and might still not be at his peak. He is up 11 pounds for a big win at Newcastle last time but is worth a chance back on turf.

RIDE THE THUNDER is still a colt and he has the right man aboard for a Saturday middle-distance handicap. He remains lightly-raced open to progress and the yard are still in fine form. Fourth-up for this spell with potential to peak he should show up well.

Well-drawn, well-bred runner for a yard in form who generally does well in this race and at this course. Second attempt at this distance after having run well in defeat on the first attempt at York 2 weeks ago.

9lb pull with Circus Of Rome since their last meeting over distance. Gran Descans ran on well late and continued to stay on. If William Buick can find a decent position, this could mount a late challenge and win this for powerful connections.

Three second placed finishes since being upped in distance to 1m 4f and 1m 5f. Upped in distance again today to 1m 6f which may be beneficial. Chance to finally get that first win.

Valiancy is the hot favorite here, and yet 12/1 shot Way of Stars was only a short head behind him last time out and is 1 lb better off now. This horse has also got a jockey upgrade and prior to that hacked up by 7 lengths under similar trip and ground conditions as he gets here. Looks to be on a winnable mark to me and looks sure to play a part.

I can't resist an each-way punt on Love Talk, the 33/1 outsider of the field. A very capable sort who hasn't won for a while, but she has not been beaten far in some very good races, including a close-up finish in the Melrose at York on latest. Bet of the day in my humble opinion.