14:42 Southwell Tips — Thursday 9th April 2026

The 14:42 at Southwell presents a cracking opportunity for a well-touted sort to finally get his head in front, and our confident selection is **Ay Up Duck**. This Michael Appleby-trained runner, partnered by the experienced Robert Havlin, looks perfectly poised to shed his maiden tag in this Flat contest.

The critical factor here is the form line '2'. Horses showing significant promise on debut and returning for their second start often produce significant improvement, a well-established trend in flat racing. That initial run will undoubtedly have brought him on immensely, mentally and physically, sharpening him up for today's assignment. The market has certainly spotted this, with Ay Up Duck holding a strong EVS price, which is always encouraging for an unexposed type with obvious upside. Appleby excels with these kinds of improving young horses, and Havlin's cool head will be a major asset.

For those looking for an each-way alternative, **Skip To Victory** makes plenty of appeal. This horse has shown consistent form and looks capable of running into a place, offering solid value if the favourite somehow falters or the pace is hotter than expected. However, all signs point to Ay Up Duck getting the job done today.