Argentero shows his class at Naas

Argentero ran out a good winner of the Listed Coolmore War Command Rochestown Stakes scoring under Colin Keane for Ger Lyons.

An impressive winner on his debut over the course and distance in April the son of Zoffany had to settle for second behind the classy Round Two on his next start again at Naas.

Sent off the 15/8 second favourite he was settled in third before coming with his challenge on the outer over two furlongs out.

He was ridden to lead inside the final furlong and he kept on well in the closing stages, going on to win by two lengths in the colours of Sean Jones. Galway Bay ran on well to take second under Gary Carroll for Johnny Levins at 14/1. Birchwood was sent off the 5/6 favourite (touched evens on-course) but he had no more to offer once headed inside the final furlong and he finished third under James Doyle for Richard Fahey.

Ger Lyons said afterwards: "There is a horrendous headwind, it's very hard and it was a good brave performance. He's got a great attitude and a great temperament.

"He's still not got the ground he wants as he wants good ground.

"I wasn't disappointed the last day as I knew how much Jim Bolger thought of his horse (Round Two). We probably have the second best colt in Ireland, so we'll let him go to Ascot and we'll go for the Railway Stakes.

"The plan has always been to come here and then go for the Railway Stakes.

"I would like to commend Naas for putting on a day like this which is a great help in preparing horses for Ascot. They deserve full credit and it's just a pity that the weather has let them down."

Colin Keane added: "It's hard work with the ground and the wind but he done it well and he was idling out in front.

"He pleases you at home and he tries his heart out so you can't fault him.

"I was originally disappointed after the last day but Round Two looks like a very smart horse after he won again.

"I probably didn't go quick enough early on the last day and gave the newcomer (Round Two) a chance to get his feet but in saying that now he looks good.

"He would remind you of Cappella Sanservero in that he is very laid back and you could ride him which ever you want. I'd say further wouldn't be a bother to him either."

Boylesports now go 2/1 (from 3's) about Round Two for the Coventry Stakes.

Additional reporting by Alan Magee