Mahoning ValleyWed, November 15, 2023

MUGSY MALONE (5) did a good job last time, finishing in the money when second over 1m at Mountaineer Park (Dirt). Should be prominent from the outset. Among the leading chances. OKLAHOMA JOE (4) built on a nice second two starts back at Thistledown (Dirt) with a win as favourite over 6f at this track (Dirt) three-and-a-half weeks ago, getting home by 4.5 lengths. Beautifully placed and is sure to take a ton of beating again. VAIL OF HONOR (7) doesn't win out of turn but ran a nice race last time out over 1m at this track (Dirt), finishing second and beaten 1.75 lengths after being prominent at the corner. This looks a sterner test than last time but on his best form he is capable of a big performance. NEED TO KNOW BASIS (9) was comfortably accounted for when third last time out over 1m at Thistledown, beaten 8 lengths, after a win at Belterra Park at the previous outing. Worth plenty of thought.