Inisherin caused an upset in the Group 2 Sandy Lane Stakes at Haydock on Saturday, drawing clear for a comfortable victory ahead of the unbeaten Vandeek.
Sixth in the 2000 Guineas, there were question marks about Inisherin's suitability dropping back to six furlongs for the first time but the Kevin Ryan-trained colt appeared to relish a faster test. Ridden prominently by jockey Tom Eaves, Inisherin was always in control of the race and kicked clear for an easy victory.
Meanwhile, leading juvenile Vandeek was expected to get his season off to flyer as the 10/11 favourite but failed to show a turn of foot in the final two furlongs, having been switched left for a clear passage by jockey James Doyle. The Simon and Ed Crisford-trained colt stayed on one pace and had to concede second-place to the fast-finishing Orne in the final strides.
Delighted jockey Tom Eaves said to ITV: "He's a beast.
"Before I'd opened my mouth after the Guineas, Kevin said six furlongs, he'll win next time and he was 100%. The horse is an absolute gent, he's a pleasure to deal with.
"He's on his fourth run, he's got a lot ahead of him. He was impressive today, I'm not knocking that but I think he'll get sharper and better."
Amy Ryan, representative for the trainer, said: "He's a lovely horse, got a fantastic brain. He's now shown his versatility ground wise and trip wise, it gives us a lot of options."
Inisherin would need to be supplemented for the Group 1 Commonwealth Cup at Royal Ascot, where he would re-oppose with Vandeek.
Paddy Power shortened Inisherin from 33/1 to 10/1 for the Group 1 July Cup at Newmarket, whilst Vandeek drifted in the Commonwealth Cup betting to 3/1 favourite from 5/2 favourite.
