Mastercraftsman motors to Dundalk triumph

The Breeders’ Cup meeting looks the likely next port of call for Mastercraftsman after he proved a different class to his rivals in the Diamond Stakes at Dundalk.

The son of Danehill Dancer, winner of the Irish 2000 Guineas and the St James’s Palace Stakes earlier in the season, was last seen finishing third behind Sea The Stars and Fame And Glory in the Irish Champion Stakes.

Taking a huge drop in class, the Aidan O’Brien inmate was sent off at 2-9 to make his first start on the all-weather a winning one and he travelled well within himself throughout.

Jockey Johnny Murtagh always appeared to have matters in hand as he settled the three-year-old in third place early on and once he reeled in the pacesetters at the two-furlong marker, his mount steadily pulled five lengths clear of Fiery Lad passing the post.