SOFT ground and testing conditions set the tone for the Stonehall Harriers fixture at Moig South last Sunday, where recent rainfall had eased the going at the Askeaton venue.

The opening four-year-old maiden attracted a field of 10 and, in a true test of stamina, it was the Patrick Farrell-trained newcomer Lord Du Gouet (4/1) who showed a game attitude by staying on well in the closing stages under Pa King to reel in A Real Banter and score by a length, with Champagne Blue the only other finisher in third.