The much-anticipated Puppy Cup at Romford kicks off this Friday, with the final slated for Friday, September 27th. At first glance, FIRE AND ICE, the ante-post favourite, was priced at 9/4, which initially seemed a bit tight. However, Matt Dartnall’s promising young contender is expected to breeze through the first round, and by the final, he may even start as an odds-on favourite. Dartnall has highlighted this greyhound as the perfect fit for Romford's track, making FIRE AND ICE the one to beat. As a speedy railer, he’s well-suited to this course, so I’m backing him in the outright market. Alongside him, it is worth backing ON THE BANKS at longer odds. Trained by Nathan Hunt, this young talent has shown promise in recent trials, and with his untapped potential, it is expected he will make it to the final. At double-digit odds, he’s a solid value bet in the outright market.
19:11 ROMFORD: ON THE BANKS (Trap 2)
For the Romford card, ON THE BANKS is the pick in the 19:11 heat, starting from trap two. His early speed should give him an edge, and he looks well-suited for this sharp circuit, especially as a former Dundalk racer. Although still a bit inexperienced, his improvement from the first trial to the second is a positive sign. With a slow starter to his inside, I believe ON THE BANKS will lead into the first bend.
20:54 ROMFORD: FRONT ALICE (Trap 3)
Later in the evening, during the 20:54 ladies-only race, you should be backing FRONT ALICE to turn the tables on Droopy’s Pamela, who narrowly defeated her last week. This time around, FRONT ALICE has the inside draw, wearing the white jacket, while Droopy’s Pamela is in trap four. This favourable draw should work in her favour, and with a fast start, she has a strong chance of adding another win to her record at the East London track.
13:17 HOVE: DROOPY'S VELOCITY (Trap 3)
Shifting focus to Hove, DROOPY’S VELOCITY stands out in the 13:17 A2 race after his commanding win in last week’s open race. This son of Romeo Recruit is in peak form, and if he can hold off Charizard Chief, who is quick from trap two, the path to victory should be clear. DROOPY’S VELOCITY’s early pace gives him a significant advantage in this race.
Best Bets
- 13:17 HOVE: DROOPY'S VELOCITY (Trap 3)
- 19:11 ROMFORD: ON THE BANKS (Trap 2)
- 20:54 ROMFORD: FRONT ALICE (Trap 3)
Romford Puppy Cup Outright:
- FIRE AND ICE: 2 points win (9-4)
- ON THE BANKS: 1 point win (10-1)
Enjoy the day and good luck with your bets!