'Savvy move after slow start ensured Mostahdaf was always on the front foot'

The start was undoubtedly a crucial moment in Saturday's September Stakes at Kempton, with Mostahdaf, Dubai Honour and Universal Order, who eventually filled the first three positions, all slowly away.

Mostahdaf, in particular, was awkward leaving the stalls. He threw his head up and didn't jump in a straight line, which affected him getting into stride.

Slow start puts the first three home on the back foot from the stalls

At Kempton you've got two and a bit furlongs until the first bend over a mile and a half and, because Mostahdaf was drawn in stall eight, it gave Dane O'Neill options to stay out wide and roll up to the leaders.