Soul on song for Hungerford

Australian import Soul bids to further enhance his reputation in the Betfred Hungerford Stakes at Newbury on Saturday.

Having run twice for Godolphin in Dubai, the five-year-old was not beaten far in the Duke of York Stakes earlier in the season on his British bow.

He then put in a huge effort when just over a length behind Black Caviar in the Diamond Jubilee Stakes.

Saeed bin Suroor's charge confirmed his upwardly-mobile profile when winning with plenty of authority in the six-furlong Hackwood Stakes here in July.

Bin Suroor is confident this step up to seven furlongs will suit.

He said: "He came back from his last race sound and healthy and his last piece of work was really good.

"I think the trip will suit him very well and he has improved with each run for us.

"He won on soft ground last time, but good ground will be fine for him.

"We're hoping for a good performance."

Trainer Hughie Morrison saddles Pastoral Player, a fast-finishing second behind Fanunalter in the Summer Mile at Ascot last time.

"He ran a very good race at Ascot, although I would say Saturday's race is definitely a hotter contest," said the East Ilsley handler.

"We're coming back to seven furlongs and we know he is a proper Group horse at this trip, but that's not to say he's not as effective at a mile.

"He didn't get beaten for a lack of stamina at Ascot."

Irish interest is spiked by the presence of the John Oxx-trained Alanza.

The four-year-old filly is twice a Group Three winner, but never really gained a foothold into the Falmouth Stakes at Newmarket in July.

Jockey Niall McCullagh told At The Races: "I'm looking forward to it.

"We have to travel to Newbury because she likes quick ground and we can't get any in Ireland.

"I won on her in a Listed race in Cork on fast ground and she just doesn't show her form unless it's quick.

"Hopefully Newbury stays as it is and she might show her true ability."