What promised to be a decent renewal was rendered significantly weaker by the defection of Oaks winner Tuesday earlier in the week and by the unlucky Oaks runner-up Emily Upjohn about 24 hours out (the latter due to travel problems). In the event it took a very useful effort, but no more, from the Ribblesdale winner Magical Lagoon to prevail quite narrowly in a race run at a fair gallop (106.5% finishing speed) but in a relatively ordinary final time. There were probably no stars on show here.
MAGICAL LAGOON (109 here and previously) had her task made considerably easier by the defection of the Oaks 1-2 and probably ran to about the same level as when winning the Ribblesdale Stakes at Royal Ascot the time before, leading briefly early and always close up, going on again 2f out but soon challenged and under strong pressure, responding well to get on top for sure, if only narrowly, near the line.
TOY (108 here, 96 previously) was the choice of Ryan Moore and ran easily her best race, chasing the leaders, making headway over 2f out and soon with every chance, continuing to run on but just denied.
CAIRDE GO DEO (104 here, 101 previously) ran just about her best race and should continue to be competitive at just below usual Group 1 level, held up in mid-field, waiting for a run briefly over 2f out then switched and running on until no further impression in the final 1f.
EMILY DICKINSON (103 here and previously) confirmed her previous useful form though did not help her cause by wandering somewhat in the closing stages, keeping on again near the finish.
SHOW OF STARS (89 here, 98 previously) was well held but led for a long way and fared about as well as could be expected.
FENNELA (88 here and previously) seemed to run creditably but never really looked like playing a major part, stumbling 4f out.
HISTORY (87 here, 104 previously) had been only a few lengths worse than Magical Lagoon at Royal Ascot but disappointed, in rear when hampered 4f out.
