Thunder Moon the leading two-year-old despite sub-standard National Stakes

Thunder Moon was an impressive winner of a sub-standard National Stakes at the Curragh on Sunday, marking himself down as this year's leading two-year-old.

The Joseph O'Brien-trained colt had created a huge impression when winning first time up and built on that in great style at the Curragh.

In one of the least satisfactory runnings of the seven-furlong Group 1 in recent times, Thunder Moon was one of the chief sufferers when racing room was at a premium. He would have won by further if Declan McDonogh had enjoyed a better trip.