Murtagh & Oxx back in the number one

Johnny Murtagh rode his first winner since resuming in the number one role with the Aga Khan and John Oxx when getting Mesariya (now a 25/1 chance with Ladbrokes for the Oaks), a first-timer by Sinndar, home in the Irish Stallion Farms European Breeders Fund Fillies Maiden at Leopardstown.

Winning the race for the third year in succession, Oxx's charge got a clear run on the outer opposed to the nightmare passage endured by hot favourite Wonder Of Wonders on the inner. In the end Mesariya held on from Siren's Song (a promising newcomer belonging to Jessica Harrington with Fran Berry up).

Oxx said: "That looked a good maiden - a nice race. She is by Sinndar which gives her the stamina but she is out of a Cadeaux Genereux mare who was a seven furlong filly.

"We don't have a strong programme here for the likes of her but the Salsabil Stakes at Navan in 3 weeks time is an option.

"We got a rush of blood and entered her for the Guineas and Oaks lately and that doesn't look too stupid now."