Epsom rematch: the pros and cons of the Irish Derby big guns

No more than half a length separated Anthony Van Dyck, Madhmoon and Broome in the Derby and the trio clash again in the Irish edition on Saturday.

Will Anthony Van Dyck confirm the form or is there reason to think Madhmoon or Broome will prevail this time? Here are the pros and cons for the leading contenders.

Anthony Van Dyck
Derby, winner

Pros
The one to beat on form having defeated these rivals last time and he appears to have the perfect blend of talent and professionalism. He may not have travelled into the race at Epsom particularly strongly but that is no different to how he often shaped as a juvenile last season.

Anthony Van Dyck: bidding for a Derby double on SaturdayCredit: Alan Crowhurst

He is not ground dependent and is the only one of the leading trio to have won at the Curragh. Ryan Moore takes over on board.

Cons
There is often more of an emphasis on speed than stamina in the Irish Derby and that could give an advantage to Anthony Van Dyck's rivals.

Madhmoon
Derby, runner-up

Pros
Has run well in the 2,000 Guineas (finished fourth) and the Derby and there is no doubt he is one of the best three-year-olds in training.

Madhmoon: second in the Derby last timeCredit: Patrick McCann (racingpost.com/photos)

Looked the likely winner at Epsom after cruising through the race, and showed a good attitude once passed by Anthony Van Dyck to battle on for second. The effort could even be marked up as he clipped heels and stumbled slightly with half a mile to go.

If the race ends up as a test of speed he may have an advantage over his two Epsom rivals.

Cons
One of the major doubts before the Derby was whether he would stay the trip and, although he ran well and is clearly effective over a mile and a half, his optimum trip might be a mile and a quarter.

Broome
Derby, fourth

Pros
Was forced wide before charging late in the Derby and was perhaps the most unlucky horse in the race. Could be overpriced based on how close he got to Anthony Van Dyck and Madhmoon at Epsom.

Broome: winner of two starts this seasonCredit: Patrick McCann (racingpost.com/photos)

Cons
Has twice finished behind Anthony Van Dyck and Madhmoon. Will stay further than the Derby trip and the prospect of a race placing the emphasis on speed may not play to his strengths.

Verdict: Madhmoon was a tad unlucky at Epsom and his speed can prove an asset with conditions in his favour.

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