For today’s Daily Double, we’re predicting a Richard Fahey-trained gelding to come home at Ayr and Steaua Bucharest to grab a share of the spoils at Anfield.
By William Lattimore and Conor Heneghan
The Richard Fahey-trained FAITHFUL RULER gets my vote in the 1m Handicap at Ayr at 3.50. The Elusive Quality gelding went in to my notebook when he stayed on really well from an impossible position to finish third to the in-form Sir George at Ripon last month. The very capable Lee Topliss takes off a valuable 5lbs allowance, and a continuation of his recent form will see the course and distance winner go close today.
Faithful Ruler can be backed to win at 7/1.
Liverpool take on Steaua Bucharest in the Europa League this evening, and with old rivals Manchester United waiting on Sunday, manager Roy Hodgson is likely to take the same approach as Sir Alex Ferguson did on Tuesday night and rest a host of first team regulars. Hodgson has made no attempt to disguise the fact that the competition lies well down the list of his priorities and there is a chance that like United, Liverpool could be in for a shock at Anfield.
Steaua are in decent form and are currently joint top of the Romanian league after seven games. A draw would be a massive result for the visitors this evening and we think that they have a good chance of leaving Anfield with a point.
Chance your arm on Steaua nicking a draw at Liverpool at 7/2.
JOE’s Daily Double: Faithful Ruler (Ayr, 3.50 @ 7/1) and Liverpool to draw with Steaua Bucharest @ 7/2.
