Steeler shows his mettle

Steeler digs deep to claim Group Two prize

Last updated: 29th September 2012  

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Steeler: Repelled all challengers in the Royal Lodge

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Steeler produced a typically gritty performance to win the Juddmonte Royal Lodge Stakes at Newmarket.

Mark Johnston's colt had already displayed levels of tenacity so often associated with runners from his Middleham yard so it was no surprise to see him dig deep to repel the challenge of Artigiano.

In another race run at steady fractions on the Rowley Mile, a blanket could have been thrown over the field as the passed the halfway point in the mile contest.

Frankie Dettori was in the front rank aboard Artigiano along with Birdman but Fallon soon took up the running aboard the Raven's Pass colt with over three furlong to run.

The experienced pilots had got their fractions right as those behind failed to pick up as the leaders wound up the pace and it was soon left to Artigiano and Steeler to fight out the finish with Fallon's mount well on top at the line in the Group Two heat.

There was over three lengths back to Al Waab in third, just edging out Birdman, while the favourite, Fantastic Moon, flew late to finish fifth.

A Little Aggrieved

Supporters of Jeremy Noseda's charge may feel a little aggrieved as the Dalakhani colt was buffeted around like a pinball as the pace quickened but he looked to be struggling to pick up at the time.

He did, however, finish with gusto to suggest that a stiffer test/gallop will help to show him in a better light.

The winning trainer said: "We've been itching to see him over a mile. I was standing with John Ferguson to watch the race and not far away from Simon Crisford and from a furlong out we were happy it was the right two fighting it out and he just found an extra gear when he met the rising ground."

The winner is now guaranteed a place in the Breeders' Cup should connections decide to head to Santa Anita but the trainer isn't convinced that will be the plan.

"We're not thinking about that at the moment. It's nice to have it but first step will be the Racing Post Trophy. After that we'll see if they want to continue this year or not."

Steeler received a quote of 33-1 from Sky Bet for the Qipco 2000 Guineas.

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