Earth swoops to Strike on debut

Earth Strike swooped inside the final furlong to make a winning debut in the opening fillies maiden at Leopardstown, leading home a one-two-three for trainer Joseph O'Brien.

The daughter of Zoffany, a half-sister to champion stayer Order Of St George, went to post a 12/1 shot in the seven furlong contest.

Shane Crosse 's mount had plenty to do turning for home but came with a strong run down the outside to lead well inside the final furlong.

She was pulling away in the closing stages to beat Royal Blend by two-and-three-quarter lengths with three lengths further back to Omakase

Assistant Brendan Powell said:- “She's done that well and I know they liked her at home.

“Shane said that's as short as she wants to go, she'll stay in time, but he said she travelled great and coped with the ground well enough.

“You couldn't ask for anymore first time out. The other two fillies are nice as well and will win their races. Hopefully the winner might be quite smart.

“The second is a big filly too and she'll improve a lot. The third filly is not the biggest in the world but she keeps improving with every run and will win her race.

“It's a good start to the day.”