The Scotsman

Keeping faith with Eminent set to pay rich dividends in Coral-eclipse

- By GLENDALE

Supporters of Eminent may be tempted to desert the colt following two Classic misses, but those that keep the faith can be richly rewarded in the Coral-eclipse at Sandown.

Martyn Meade’s colt was a popular choice for the 2000 Guineas and the Derby after winning the Craven Stakes on his reappearan­ce, but he fell short on each of those occasions.

However, there was little shame in being beaten just three and a half lengths by an on-form Churchill when sixth in the Guineas over what was probably an inadequate mile trip, particular­ly on the quick ground that Headquarte­rs produced. Hopes were high of Epsom redemption on his next run, but the race did not really pan out in his favour as he was nearer last than first coming into the straight, when he fairly flew home to finish just under two lengths behind Wings Of Eagles.

Eminent got a bit squeezed for room in the finish, too, so there is every chance he could have been a bit closer still to the reopposing Cliffs Of Moher on that occasion, so the length he needs to find may not take much doing.

Unlike Barney Roy, there are no question marks about him actually getting the trip and as a son of Frankel, it may well be that the drop down to 10 furlongs actually plays in his favour.

Meade has already indicated new rider Silvestre de Sousa will employ more positive tactics and taking advantage of the 10lb pull with his older rivals, Eminent can make it three Eclipse wins on the bounce for the Classic generation.

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