Yielding second prize showing fondness (4,4)

I believe the answer is:

soft spot

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(Other definitions for soft spot that I've seen before include "Sentimental affection" , "Affectionate weakness for (someone/something)" , "Sentimental fondness" , "Emotional susceptibility" , "Feeling of affection towards person - not hard" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.

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