Fallon Hoping For Aussie Rule

Kieren Fallon has opted to partner Aussie Rules as trainer Aidan O'Brien launches a four-strong assault on Sunday's Gainsborough Poule D'Essai De Poulains (French 2000 Guineas) at Longchamp.

Aussie Rules fared best of the Ballydoyle runners in the Prix de Fontainebleau at the track last month and Fallon's decision to ride the Danehill colt leaves Olivier Peslier to partner Ivan Denisovich.

Marcus Andronicus will be ridden by Christophe Soumillon, with David McCabe will be aboard James Joyce.

British interests will be represented by Mick Channon's Yassood and the John Gosden-trained West Of Amarillo.

The home defence is spearheaded by Nicolas Clement's impressive Fontainebleau winner Stormy River, the likely favourite.

Clement said: 'He has had a trouble-free preparation. He is in good condition and very good shape. His fitness is not a problem.

'The going will not be a problem either as he has won on heavy and fast going.

'I just hope it is a clean race and that it is not a traditionally tactical French one although having said that, he has won both from the front and coming from behind.'

Robert Collet runs two in Fenice and Dream In Blue, while the 11-strong field is completed by Porto Santo and Garnica.

Connections of Yasoodd will be hoping he fares better on his travels this time as his last trip to France yielded a disappointing outcome in the stewards' room.

The Inchinor colt won the Prix La Rochette only to be disqualified and placed fourth after being judged guilty of interference.

'It was a shambles what happened in France last time but that's all in the past now,' said Channon.

'I think he's stronger this year and he's a really nice looking horse.'

(C) PA Sport