ILLUSION CAN DO THE TRICK

kept on stoutly to finish two and three-quarter lengths adrift at the line.

The impression left by that performance was that the Godolphin filly would be well served by a step up in distance — and that theory is backed up by her bloodline.

Wild Illusion’s dam Rumh won at two miles, so this afternoon’s testing 12-furlong trip will see William Buick’s mount in her best light yet.

And a wet week in Surrey is the answer to connections’ prayers — the prevailing give underfoot is exactly what Wild Illusion needs for her bid to give Appleby a first Classic triumph. Of her eight rivals, Perfect Clarity is feared most.

The Clive Cox trainee comes into the race as the only unbeaten runner, and also has a recognised trial — at Lingfield, where she had Flattering back in third — on her CV. Having had two outings, Adam Kirby’s partner is light on experience — a comment that applies to Ejtyah, third to Give And Take in York’s Musidora Stakes.

But Perfect Clarity looks the type with plenty of untapped potential to draw upon and Cox’s enthusiasm for her chance is unmistakable.

Aidan O’Brien’s challenge — Flattering is joined by Magic Wand, Forever Together, Bye Bye Baby and I Can Fly — is, as ever, a strong one.

Magic Wand (above) was the logical choice for Ryan Moore after trialling with success in Chester’s Cheshire Oaks, but should appreciate the opportunity to tackle a mile and a half for the first time.