David Jennings analyses the Curragh Cup ahead of likely O'Brien showdown

4.45 Curragh
Comer Group International Curragh Cup | Group 2 | 1m6f, 3yo+ | RTV

This is a real conundrum for punters, as they have to try to weigh up how much improvement there is to come from Master Of Reality, given he was 11 lengths in arrears of Twilight Payment when the pair met over course and distance three weeks ago.

The reason for thinking Master Of Reality may be able to bridge the gap is because it was the first appearance since his agonising near miss in the Melbourne Cup last November, where Frankie Dettori failed by a head against Vow And Declare.

The pair were subsequently demoted to fourth because of interference but it was a superb effort nonetheless. Expect him to see out this race better than the one three weeks ago and it would be no surprise if the form were to be turned on its head.

Twilight Payment is a rock-solid stayer who did well for Jim Bolger and has maintained a high level for form for O'Brien. He looked as good as ever last time and everything points to another bold showing. Don't forget he won this race last year.

Joseph's father Aidan has won the race five times in the last seven years, most recently with Flag Of Honour in 2018, and is it fascinating to see him rely upon Fairyhouse maiden winner Memorabilis this time. He has blinkers on for the first time too.

The Jessica Harrington-trained Camphor will need to take another step forward, while Cypress Creek and Giuseppe Garibaldi, who represent race sponsor Luke Comer, would both be surprise winners.

Master Of Reality is fancied to step up on his recent return to land the spoils, and most likely complete a one-two for Joseph O'Brien with Twilight Payment expected to follow him home.

There is 5lb between them on ratings and, while that might not paint Twilight Payment in the right light, Master Of Reality may have a slight edge when it comes to class

What they say

Joseph O’Brien, trainer of Master Of Reality and Twilight Payment
Both horses come into it in good form having run well over the course and distance the last day. It was Master Of Reality's first day back and he seems to have come forward from that. Twilight Payment was very good the last day and we're hoping for a similar performance which would leave him thereabouts in this.

Jessica Harrington, trainer of Camphor
She is a lovely, consistent filly who ran well last time at Roscommon and never lets us down.

Aidan O'Brien, trainer of Memorabilis
He got the trip well at Fairyhouse. He's up in trip and class here but we think he's in good order.

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