WING AND A STAYER Eagles stuns Derby rivals

Wings Of Eagles lived up to his name when swooping late in the Epsom Derby.

Padraig Beggy was a model of patience on Aidan O’Brien’s 40-1 shot and had him anchored in rear as stablemates The Anvil and Douglas Macarthur set a blistering pace.

Douglas Macarthur was still in front two out but was soon collared by Ballydoyle first string Cliffs Of Moher (5-1) who looked certain to justify strong market support under Ryan Moore.

However, Beggy had yet to play his hand and Wings Of Eagles came with a powerful late run to catch his rival inside the final furlong and won going away by three-quarters of a length.

The 7-2 jolly Cracksman was a neck back in third with fellow Frankel colt Eminent (5-1) fourth. O’Brien said: “They were really pleased with him at home and we thought he was a nice horse last year. He had a lovely run at Chester last time and we couldn’t be happier.

“We’re delighted with Cliffs Of Moher too. He was a little bit of a baby and got there but got a little bit tired. His next run will be something to look forward to.

“Padraig is a brilliant rider - a world-class rider, he always has been. He rides an awful lot of work for us and is tactically very aware.”

Wings Of Eagles’ late show saved the nation’s bookies a multi-million pound payout and he is now a general 14-1 shot for the Arc at Chantilly in October.

Caspian Prince (25-1) once again showed his liking for Epsom when landing the Dash for the third time under Tom Eaves.