Well backed Alexander takes Limerick opener

Private Alexander reversed debut form with Royal Empress as she took the opening race at Limerick this evening, the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Median Auction Fillies Maiden.

Trained by Ger Lyons and ridden by Gary Carroll, the daughter of Footstepsinthesand finished fourth on her debut at the Curragh last month behind Nandiga over six furlongs, while Royal Empress was a length and a quarter ahead of the winner in third.

However Private Alexander reserved the placings today in the contest which was over a furlong extra.

The duo had a great battle from two furlongs out with the winner battling back after being headed just over a furlong from home.

She kept on best inside the final furlong to regain the lead and score by a length at the line.

33/1 outsider Ghost Of A Girl ran well on her debut to finish third, four and a half lengths back for Tom McCourt and Ben Curtis.

Having opened on track at 2/1, the winner was backed into 11/10 favouritism at the off while Royal Empress was returned at 11/8, having opened on course the 11/10 favourite for David Wachman and Billy Lee.

Assistant trainer Shane Lyons said afterwards: "She is a typical one from our yard in that she needed her first run. She has improved immensely since then.

"Ger absolutely loves her and loves those Footstepsinthesand horses.

"She is very genuine and we would have been disappointed if she hadn’t done what she has been showing us at home.

"The Debutante Stakes and the Moyglare are possibilities for her now."

Donal Murphy & Thomas Weekes