Leung's Decouvert has bright future

He was green as a sapling but there's a definite future in the game for the Andy Leung-trained Decouvert (10-1) after a slashing third behind all-the-way winner Sharp Shooter in yesterday's Class Four minimum dash.

The flashy chestnut son of Kenmare was parked just off the speed under stable jockey Brett Doyle and when the English ace asked for his effort at the turn the three-year-old picked up smartly. He did roll around for a few strides at the top of the straight and he still has some learning to do but there is plenty there for Leung to work with.

This was only his second trip to the races and under the circumstances it was a solid effort to steady again and rally for the tierce spot, just one length from the winner. Stepped up in trip and returned to Sha Tin, Decouvert will score.

Earlier, there was a strong effort from the David Hayes-trained debutant Express Lot (5.2-1) who got too far back before rattling home in the Class Four opener won by Ideal Partner.

It was tough to make ground under the slow tempo and he did well to grab fifth, beaten five lengths. He too will relish more ground than yesterday's 1,000-metre scamper and has impressed many track-watchers with his attitude in the mornings.TLP