Phoenix Of Spain shocks Watan in Acomb Stakes

Phoenix Of Spain looks to have a bright future after running down the favourite Watan to win the Tattersalls Acomb Stakes at York.

A winner on the all-weather at Wolverhampton last time out, the Lope De Vega colt was sent off at 9-2 in the Group Three contest.

Oisin Murphy appeared to have everything under control on the strongly-fancied Watan, but Jamie Spencer - who enjoyed a five-timer at Yarmouth on Tuesday - brought Charlie Hills' youngster over to the stands rail for the final push.

He pulled a length and a half clear from there to give Hills a second win in the race after Dutch Connection in 2014.

Hills said: "He was impressive at Wolverhampton and we felt York would suit him better.

"I thought Jamie gave him a great ride. He was a bit windy beforehand and he settled him well.

"Once he got daylight he picked up nicely and finished well. You'd like to think a mile would be within his compass this season."

The winner was introduced into the 2000 Guineas betting at 20-1 by Betfair and 33-1 by RaceBets.

On future plans, Hills said: "He's in the Royal Lodge and the Dewhurst, but I'm not sure how he'd handle Newmarket. I don't think he'd want very fast ground, either.

"Jamie was keen to go for the Racing Post Trophy so we might aim towards that."