THE opening day started in the perfect manner for favourite backers when William Haggas’ Alfarris took the Matchbook Betting Exchange Handicap at a surprisingly generous 13/2.

A very good second at Sandown last time and from a stable in fine form all season, Alfarris was squeezed out at the start and had plenty to do at halfway as Plutonian led from his wide draw with the prolific Rainbow Rebel close up.