Steve Matthews' Belmont at the Big A selections for Friday, June 28
Best bet: DETERMINED LILLY (3)
Best value: WO HOP (9)
FIRST: Shakin the Belle could capitalize on soft lead in weak field. Unaffected could be the prime beneficiary if pace meltdown ensues. Hours in a Day should be aided by return to dirt.
SECOND: St Andrews was a clear-cut winner at the mile distance two starts back. Nolo Contesto makes third start of form cycle; don't ignore. Nimitz Class drops and owns fast back figures; dangerous if all is well.
THIRD: Determined Lilly logged hard-charging score in first start on Big A sod; takes another. Solib should find additional quarter mile right in her wheelhouse. Spooky Lady could prove a tough customer on an unchallenged lead.
FOURTH: Bobby the Tank is speedy and rested; call in wide-open N2L field. Chalky Cat, an uncoupled barn mate of top pick, would be aided by swift splits. Ice Road has eight seconds from 22 starts; must use in exotics.
FIFTH: Solo's Fury is fleet-footed and gets blinkers and Lasix; main speed. Apollo Code ships in from Jersey after winning two straight at Monmouth; very playable. On the Hill logged three tight works for first start in seven weeks; dangerous.
SIXTH: Lamorna packs potent late kick on "A" efforts. Scarlet Poppy could get the early jump with heads-up handling. Chardan could impact if fractions get hot and hectic.
SEVENTH: Spirit of Esther drops and should be aided by today's longer trip. Generous Luva owns speed and gets Lasix; dangerous. Miss Lao compiled tight work tab for first start in 55 days; worth long look.
EIGHTH: Magnificent Mile pressed fast fractions when a determined winner last time at Monmouth; nice fit with the locals at this level. Blue Plate Special could be in the garden spot if pace meltdown comes to pass. Twelfth Man is another that would benefit from front-end duel.
NINTH: Wo Hop moves to grass after firing crisp half-mile drill last week; forward move predicted. Frozen Four packs potent late kick; big-time threat. Podere is from a dam that has produced a turf winner; very interesting. Kid Kreesa's speed gives her a puncher's chance at a price.
