Sonaiyla bounces back to gain narrow win

Sonaiyla bounced back to form to secure a hard fought win in the seven-furlong handicap at Leopardstown.

The Michael Halford-trained filly had disappointed on her two most recent outings but left that form well behind.

Ronan Whelan produced the 16/1 shot to lead inside the final 100 yards and she held the late charge of Tresorier by a head at the line.

The Aga Khan filly is set for the sales but Whelan said this win could make connections think now:-

“Something came to light after her previous two runs and Mick and the team addressed it.

“She worked well during the week so I was quietly hoping that she'd come and transfer the work to the track. She duly obliged thankfully.

“She enjoyed the ground and travelled well. The last couple of runs she was very behind and I just thought something wasn't right with her.

“The guys found a little issue there, dealt with it, and she was a different filly today.

“I would maybe have liked to jump a little bit quicker. I was down the rail and for a split second I decided I wanted to switch out. I thought there were a couple on the outside that would take me into it nice and clear and there is a little fresh strip there.

“I took the chance, switched out when I had the chance, and thankfully it paid off.

“She's in the sales but I was saying to Pat (Downes) that this was food for thought. I think there is a bit more left in the locker.

“She's coming into this off two bad runs so you'd be expecting her to go on and improve again. Who knows black-type might not be out of the question.”