The owners of disappointing Sagitta 1000 Guineas favourite Petrushka today vowed that the filly will be back to show her true worth in the Vodafone Oaks.
The daughter of Unfuwain was sent off a 6-4 chance at Newmarket but could only finish four and a quarter lengths third behind winner Lahan.
Harry Herbert, the founder of the Highclere Thoroughbred racing syndicate, said: "Petrushka was clearly not herself at Newmarket and we are hopeful she will show what she is really made of at Epsom."
Trainer Sir Michael Stoute has told the owners that he believes Petrushka may have been below-par on Sunday because she is coming into season.
Extensive tests were being carried out on the filly today to see if there is any evidence for that theory.
The zip that Petrushka displayed in winning last month's Shadwell Stud Nell Gwyn Stakes was clearly lacking when she contested the 1000 Guineas.
"Those of us who know the filly thought that she looked docile and flat in the parade ring before the race," said Herbert.
"She was clearly not herself and the writing was on the wall before she even went to post.
"Michael said it was like saddling a rocking horse she was so quiet when really they should be charged up and ready to roll.
"She also went down to the start lethargically and in the race she was off the bridle early on. It's extraordinary that she managed to finish third.
"Some people have mentioned that the fast ground might have been a problem but we don't think that was an issue. She's worked well on fast ground at home and both Michael and Kieren wouldn't have that as a reason.
"Michael suggests that she might have been coming into season and she is having her progesterone levels checked, it will be interesting to see the outcome.
"It's strange to say that you're disappointed when you've had a horse just finish third in a Classic but we know that she's a lot better than she's shown.
"On her breeding she should stay one and a half miles and she will be going straight for the Oaks now. Hopefully she'll be able to put things right at Epsom."
