WEATHER WAS CROSS TO BEAR

John Anthony finds Epsom Classic speed stats could muddy the picture

- John Anthony

CHRISTMAS DAY won the Derby in what was a reasonable enough figure of 78 but he’s unlikely to score at the highest level again away from soft ground.

Conditions were shocking at Epsom where it was more like heavy than the official soft and it’s a disgrace that they were still calling it good to soft earlier on the Derby day card when they were going in knee deep.

Second home MALTESE CROSS clocked 73 and I'd say he’s the one to take out of the race because he ran a lovely race despite the conditions not being ideal.

William Haggas’ colt is a lovely mover and that’s why he was able to go so close and he'll come into his own in slightly better conditions. This may have left a mark though and hopefully he isn’t seen for a little while.