Joseph O'Brien is edging closer to a first Jockeys' Championship and moved three clear of rival Pat Smullen when steering Lines Of Battle to win the Listed Irish Stallion Farms European Breeders Fund Star Appeal Stakes at Dundalk this evening.

Lines Of Battle moved to the front a furlong and a half out before staying on well to eventually comfortably defeat Tennesse Wildcat. Third placed Hudson's Bay caught just about everyone's eye on his debut, having missed the break before flashing home late for a fine debut effort.

Winning trainer Aidan O'Brien was not present but his son Joseph (winning jockey) did later report “Lines Of Battle ran well in a Group 3 last time but we were slightly disappointed he didn't win. He was quite green the last day but showed he is a better horse today. He is lazy and had the cheek pieces on but is still learning and is genuine.”

The win moves O'Brien onto the 80 mark for the season, three in front of Smullen.