Empire justifies good support to open account

Soldier's Empire was a warm order in the first division of the Irish EBF Median Sires Series Maiden at Dundalk and landed the spoils for Ger Lyons and Colin Keane.

The Bated Breath colt, fifth in the Goffs Million at the Curragh last time, was backed from 9/2 into 11/10 favourite.

Keane produced his mount to lead a furlong-and-a-half from home and he held the late charge of Rothstein to record a half-length win.

Assistant Shane Lyons said: "He was brave, he is still very green. First time under the lights and all that can hit them.

"He was down the inside and the horse that he was taking the lead off pushed him in a little bit, was leaning in a little bit.

"He fought back right to the line and he'll really enjoy himself now when he gets a little bit of a break, he'll really mature over the winter. He's a real honest, quiet, grand horse.

"He'll get that trip and he'll get more. He wants nice ground.

"You'll see him back next April some time.

"Great to get a winner for the owners (Ballygallon Stud)."

(Quotes by Michael Graham)