Nunthorpe next? Speedy Steel Bull makes it two from two in Molecomb

Steel Bull: smart juvenile made it two wins from two starts in the Molecomb Stakes under Colin Keane

Alan Crowhurst

Colin Keane did not win the Sussex Stakes aboard the previously unbeaten Siskin but he did keep Steel Bull’s perfect record intact when winning the Markel Insurance Molecomb Stakes for Irish trainer Michael O’Callaghan.

The Clodovil colt, who was sent off the 2-1 favourite after winning on his debut at Naas just a week ago, was settled towards the rear as Ben Macdui carved out the early fractions. 

Steel Bull was the last horse off the bridle and had to wait for a gap behind Marygate winner Sardinia Sunset but picked up immediately to see off 16-1 Ben Macdui by three-quarters of a length. 50-1 outsider Internationaldream finished third. 

Steel Bull (navy) picks up Ben Macdui with ease

Alan Crowhurst

Keane said: “When you’re on a horse like this he made it easy for me. He travelled everywhere and when I gave him a squeeze he picked up very well.

“He was a good winner of a maiden, he won his maiden in a hack it looked like at Naas, so he’s a progressive horse.”

The striking colt, who runs in the colours of his trainer, became the first Irish-trained winner of the Molecomb since Requinto scored for David Wachman in 2011. 

O’Callaghan will take his time before committing to Steel Bull’s next target, but didn’t discount a crack at the Coolmore Nunthorpe at York on August 21, for which the colt would receive a hefty weight advantage from his elders.

He also indicated the Phoenix Stakes at the Curragh next weekend, which comes over six furlongs, could come too soon. 

This race report is being updated and more news will follow shortly

FIRST PUBLISHED 4:19PM, JUL 29 2020