Gabriel’s Lad storms home to give Coakley win at Ascot

THE stands’ side held sway as Gabriel’s Lad gave Denis Coakley a high-profile success in the £7.5million Totescoop6 Victoria Cup at Ascot.

The 25-strong field split into two groups soon after the start, with Purcell taking the far side along, while Dubawi Sound led the nearside runners.

George Baker, pictured, had his mount perfectly poised on the stands’ side, settling towards the rear early on before sweeping through inside the final furlong to claim the sevenfurlong prize at odds of 12-1.

The Coakley-trained victor had two and a quarter lengths in hand at the finish, with Glen Moss second and Belgian Bill in third.

Baker said: ‘He travelled supremely well and the race fell apart in front of me.

‘I got there a furlong out going very comfortably and it was ideal in that there was a strong gallop and it was a smart performance.

‘Fair play to all the connections as they were very confident beforehand.’