STEVEN Arnold was as mystified as anyone by the flop of odds-on favourite Mr O’Ceirin in today’s Dominant Handicap (1600m) at Moonee Valley, reports Racing Network.

Arnold said Mr O’Ceirin, backed from $1.65 to $1.60, was the first horse beaten when he punctured at the 800 metres.

 

Mr O’Ceirin dropped out to finish sixth, beaten about eight lengths behind De Fine Lago.

 

When it was suggested that Mr O’Ceirin may have pulled too hard, Arnold replied: “He does that nearly every run. He was a bit keen around the first corner and down the side.

 

“I was gone 800 metres out, it wasn’t as if he was grabbed on the line. Maybe he wants it wetter, that’s the only thing I can think of.”