Cliffs Of Moher delivers solid performance without wow factor

Cliffs Of Moher's victory in the Dee Stakes yesterday was a good, solid performance without having any wow factor about it. Like most of Aidan O'Brien's horses having their first run of the season, plenty of improvement can be expected but it will be needed if he is to become a Derby winner.

There is no guarantee that stepping up to 1m4f will play to the colt's strengths and one is left with the impression that, while Ballydoyle has several colts worthy of a place in the Investec Derby, there may not be one, with the exception of Churchill, who has so far displayed star quality potential.

That could all change and not just if Churchill gets the Derby call-up. It is still early days for middle-distance colts and any number of them could take giant steps forward in the next couple of weeks.