Arabian can prove a Force to be reckoned with for Haggas

PATIENCE can pay dividends with Arabian Force, who should be able to secure a first Listed success in the BetMGM Noel Murless Stakes at Ascot.

- By ANITA CHAMBERS

Arabian Force, left, finished third behind Pride Of Arras in the Sky Bet Great Voltigeur Stakes at York in August and has excellent prospects of winning today

(MIKE EGERTON/PA WIRE)

William Haggas has taken a measured approach with this Lope De Vega colt who opened his account at the second time of asking at Wetherby in April, following up with a novice success over the 106-rated Gladius before finding a rise to Group Three company at Royal Ascot a bit beyond him in June.

Eased back to Listed level at Hamilton, he only narrowly lost out to Nahraan but he showed a Group race could be within his compass when chasing home Pride Of Arras in the Great Voltigeur at York.

He was not unfancied for the St Leger following that run but connections bypassed a Classic challenge, with this 14-furlong test an easier test on paper and seemingly a fine opportunity to ease up to a staying distance.