'He's a beast' - Westover fends off late charge of Cash in Classic Trial

Friday: bet365 Classic Trial, Sandown

Rob Hornby described Westover as a "serious unit" and the three-year-old had to show plenty of fight to hold off the fast-finishing Cash to keep the Cazoo Derby dream alive in the Classic Trial.

The market suggested Godolphin would claim yet more big-race spoils with the 5-4 favourite Goldspur, but he could finish only third as the front pair fought out a thrilling finish in the final strides.

After scoring for the first time at Group 3 level, Westover could attempt to emulate Adayar, winner of last year's Derby, who was runner-up in this race a year ago. He was halved in price to 25-1 for the Classic by Paddy Power.

"I really like this horse," said Hornby. "He's run here twice and won both times. He's a beast, a serious unit, and we always thought he'd be better at three. He was still quite keen early on and it was just a matter of settling him, but he really picked up when he saw space.

Click here to watch Westover prevail in the Group 3 at Sandown

"He had a roll around in front but got his head down on the line when it mattered. We were coming here to learn and it's exciting he's done it like that. He showed us all the signs at home. He got into a rhythm and I was taken with how he travelled up the hill."

On whether he would handle Epsom, the jockey added: "For a big horse, he's pretty well balanced and is quite light on his feet. I'd be encouraged he could handle it. He's strengthened into his frame and I think the Dante Stakes at York could be a perfect next step."

The decision on whether he runs again will be left to trainer Ralph Beckett, according to Juddmonte's racing manager Barry Mahon.

"He's entered in the Derby but he was still a little bit green today, so if another race fitted well it might do him no harm and would clarify if he went to Epsom," he said.

"We always thought he could be one for the Derby and today showed he's on the way there."

Westover strikes for home up the Sandown hillCredit: Edward Whitaker

Cash, who was difficult to load, missed out by a short head and was cut to 20-1 (from 50) for the Derby, a shorter price than Westover.

"It’s hard to know what they are at home," said David Simcock. "He won a Newmarket maiden that hasn't worked out terribly well, but he ran well so I couldn't be happier. He showed a good turn of foot."

Results, replays and analysis

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