21st December 2016

Hi ,

As Christmas approaches Chelsea are top of the Premier League with a winning run of 12 games since their last losing game back at the Emirates against the Arsenal. Antonio Conte tweaked his tactics and has not looked backed since.

One has to say of the top six they are the only ones that don’t seem to have any defensive flaws and are playing with a certain swagger and confidence. Mind you with the January transfer window approaching will any of the chasing pack delve into the market to try and make quick improvements to eat into the Londoners lead?

Now did anyone spot the deliberate mistake in last weeks newsletter?

Well I said that Walter Swinburn was the youngest jockey to win the Epsom Derby at the age of 19 which was wrong. In actual fact Lester Piggott won it on Never Say Die in 1954 when only 18 and the youngest jockey to win the Blue Riband was John Parsons on Caractacus back in 1862 when only age 16.

Come on guys wakey, wakey you should have been writing in in your droves to correct me.

We have an interesting card today on the tapeta at Newcastle however for Howies Hottie I’m waiting until Thursday for General Hazard in the 4.00 at Wolverhampton. The General was a good winner for my Eye-Catcher service a couple of runs ago but last time upped to 12 furlongs he led into the straight but faded close home like an Arsenal title challenge.

Now back at a shorter trip he could well resume winning ways if he puts his best hoof forward.

HOT HANDICAPPERS

ARTIFICIAL SURFACES

Francos Secret trainer P.Hedger - Seems to be running into form and this hold up performer can strike before long.

Mossgo trainer J.Best - Front runner who should be monitored in races where he gets his own way up front.

Roachdale House trainer P.Flynn - Ex Richard Fahey horse now in Ireland who looks well handicapped.

JUMPERS

Caracci Apache trainer N.Henderson - Last weeks Howies Hottie who was going as well as the winner until parting company with the jockey. With a clear round he can gain compensation.

Wishing all readers and their families a very merry Christmas.

Back next Wednesday be lucky.

Howard Davis-Shaw.

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