4.50 PALMERSTOWN

HOUSE ESTATE IRISH ST

LEGER (GROUP 1) 1M

6F

Trip To Paris: Progressed into a leading stayer last year when he won the Gold Cup at Ascot and was beaten by only 2l when fourth in the Melbourne Cup. Hasn’t quite reached those heights since returning from injury this summer and needs to return to his very best, but he still isn’t one to underestimate as a return to form would make him a danger to all.

Order Of St George: Brilliant stayer whose last defeat came against Bondi Beach over this course and distance in June 2015. Won this race by 11l last year and has looked at least as good this term with his efforts including a clear cut triumph in the Gold Cup at Ascot. Enjoys an ease in the ground and has long looked a stayer of rare quality, all of which points to him being very hard to beat.

Silwana: Landed the 1m6f handicap at Leopardstown in fine style on the corresponding weekend last year and followed that with a 2m listed race at this track several weeks later. She has, however, struggled this season and her recent efforts leave her with a lot to find.

Kellstorm: Progressed with racing to win a heavy ground 1m4f maiden earlier in the season and followed that with a decent effort in a Naas winners’ race. However, he was well-beaten in a York handicap over this trip last time out and his best form leaves him well short of the required standard.

Unicorn: Looked a useful type in three runs last year. There was a lot to like about his return from 11 months off when he was a fine third to Wall Of Fire in a 1m 6f handicap at York. He could definitely do better still but, even so, a big step forward is needed for him to make an impact.

Wicklow Brave: Former Cheltenham Festival winner who has posted some good efforts in smart company on the flat this summer. Ran well to finish fourth in the Goodwood Cup on his penultimate start and then travelled like the winner in the Lonsdale Cup at York before fading into third behind Quest For More. This slightly shorter trip should suit better.

VERDICT

Order Of St George dominated this race last year and everything that he has done so far this season points to him recording back-to-back triumphs. It will be a major surprise if he is beaten, although peak form from Trip To Paris could provide him with a good test.