Trainer says he’s on at 40-1 as his 2,000 Guineas contender bolts up but punters aren’t convinced

NIGHT RAIDER thrust himself into 2,000 Guineas contention by maintaining his unbeaten record at Southwell.

Trained by Karl Burke, he was the talk of the town after his nine-length win on debut in December at the same venue.

It was no surprise to see him sent off at just 1-4 under a penalty and he decimated his rivals in quick time, including a horse rated 93.

Available at 33-1 before his second victory, Night Raider was slashed into as short as 10-1 for the 2,000 Guineas.

That price is a bit too short for his trainer Burke, but he's certainly happy to be on at fancier prices.

He told Sky Sports Racing: "The original idea was to go straight to the Guineas with a racecourse gallop at the Craven meeting.

"Another run is probably the right thing to do, Danny said he could do with another run, he’s still green in front.

"I don’t think I’d be taking the 10-1, the 40-1 I had a couple of months ago is a bit better. He’s obviously a very good horse."

Punters echoed Burke's thoughts that 10-1 was a shade short, with one saying: "8-1 for winning a mickey mouse race at Southwell, that's a joke surely?"

Another said: "He’ll be a group horse no doubt but 8/1 is insane."

While one more said: "8-1 for 2000 Guineas after winning at Southwell how bad is British racing."

Those who have backed City Of Troy are unlikely to be losing too much sleep and Aidan O'Brien's unbeaten superstar remains a heavy 4-5 favourite for the first Classic of the season.

The British Flat season kicks off on Saturday with the Lincoln at Doncaster.

FREE BETS - GET THE BEST SIGN UP DEALS AND RACING OFFERS

Commercial content notice: Taking one of the bookmaker offers featured in this article may result in a payment to The Sun. 18+. T&Cs apply. Begambleaware.org

Remember to gamble responsibly

A responsible gambler is someone who: