Yeats To Miss Melbourne Cup

The RVL has reported that Yeats will not head to Australia for a tilt at the Mebourne Cup in November after Aidan O'Brien's top stayer suffered a shock defeat in the Irish St Leger. William Hill have removed Yeats from their betting and now make Headhunter their 8-1 favourite for the Flemington showpiece with Ermein and Railings their 10-1 joint second favourites.

Ben Clarke of William Hill commented: "There had been significant support for Yeats, particularly in Australia, which had given the indication that he would have a tilt at the Melbourne Cup so it's a blow for Ante-post punters." He continued: "Despite his shock defeat at the Curragh he is still one of the best stayer's in the World and it's a shame he won't be flying the flag for Europe."

Melbourne Cup: Yeats N/R 8-1 Headhunter (from 9), 10-1 Ermein (from 11), Railings (from 14), 12-1 Geordieland (from 14), 14-1 Our Smoking Joe, 16-1 Pentane, Tawqueet, 20-1 Accumulate, Carte Diamond (Doubtful), Glistening, Imperial Stride, On A Jeune, Serenade Rose, Sphenophyta, 25-1 Reefscape, Young Mick, Zipping, 33-1 Cherry Mix, Pop Rock, Wunderwood, 40-1 BAR (Others Upon Application)

It has been reported that the 2007 Melbourne Cup will be Yeats' main target for which William Hill offer Aidan O'Brien's superstar at 16-1.