Matt Reid’s best bets for Friday night racing at Launceston (24/01)

The first of two thoroughbred meetings for the weekend is in Launceston on Friday night, where a nine-race card includes the Listed Launceston Guineas and $75,000 Ladbrokes Stakes.

The rail is in the +2m position with a good weather forecast.

Best bet

Race 6 – 6. Unique Eagle

The early market has this as a race in two between Unique Eagle and Glory Mission, and I’m clearly in the corner of Unique Eagle. After going around an each-way price on debut, punters have quickly latched onto the ability of this 4YO, sending her around a short favourite in two subsequent runs. She’s unbeaten, winning by good margins and beating handy horses in the process. This looks like an ideal race for her to continue her progression through the grades.

Next best

Race 5 – 2. Likeakalix

The Launceston Guineas has been the target all campaign for Likeakalix, who appears to arrive here in perfect order following a win on Devonport Cup Day over the staying trip. He was a big run in defeat at his only Launceston start, and his form can easily be tied into Azonto ($4.20-$2.90) through Moorlands Miss, who beat Azonto home in both the Tasmanian Guineas and Thousand Guineas. In my view, Likeakalix is worthy of clear favouritism in the night’s feature event.

Best value

Race 1 – 17. Manhattan Nights

It isn’t the strongest maiden to kick off the night, and I wouldn’t be surprised if it throws up a value result. Manhattan Nights went around at $151 at his second start, settling last over 1200m from a wide gate and rattling home to finish midfield. His last 200m in that race was top 10 for the night, suggesting the extra distance will suit, and drawing a low gate for the first time in his career provides the chance to settle a bit closer to the speed. More than happy to have something at nice odds to start the program.

Selections

Race 1: 17-3-13-11
Race 2: 1-4-8-3
Race 3: 5-2-6-11
Race 4: 10-4-1-13
Race 5: 2-4-1-5
Race 6: 6-3-1-8
Race 7: 5-7-4-6
Race 8: 6-3-1-4
Race 9: 5-2-3-4

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