ZAPPHIRE (1) finished third two runs back at Ascot then improved last time out to score by 1.3 lengths over 1570m at Carlisle. Ryan Sexton scored on her last time and retains the mount. Stepping up a level this time but on current form she is right in contention. VIENNOISE (4) improved sharply on her fifth two starts back at Carlisle with a win over 1600m at Doncaster nine days ago, getting home by 0.8 lengths after she gave away a big start on the bend. Meets a stronger field but she is good enough to figure in the finish. SURPRISED (8) was in the firing line on the corner and finished second last start at the first run back from a spell over 1400m at Catterick, beaten 1.3 lengths. Must raise the bar but a big run is on the cards. PENELOPE'S SISTER (9) bounced back last start and landed the prize by 3.5 lengths over 1600m at Ayr. Well placed to feature in the finish again.