Soprano strikes again at headquarters

Midnight Soprano recorded her fifth win this year, three of which have been gained here at headquarters, when holding off the challenge of Minsk by a diminishing neck in the Listed Irish Field Finale Stakes.

Chris Hayes sent her past the odds-on favourite Chamonix early in the straight, and gained what ultimately proved a vital few lengths advantage.

Minsk (11/4) rallied strongly inside the furlong pole but the Paul Deegan-trained 11/2 chance kept on gamely to prevail by a neck. Demurely was a further four and a half lengths adrift in third, with the “jolly” weakening into fourth.

Deegan reported by phone from Newmarket, “I’m delighted and she’s holding her form well. She will probably go now for a Group 3 in France.”

John Oxx confirmed afterwards that Minsk is to go back hurdling, and he will return to Dessie Hughes' yard next week.