Dettori's dirty dozen

Striking stalls handlers threatened to disrupt it, while an outbreak of the equine virus strangles caused another worrying hiccup in the build-up.

However, the Vodafone Derby goes ahead tomorrow, with a crowd of 120,000 expected for a race which features a compelling showdown between Frankie Dettori and Kieren Fallon.

Dettori remains the charismatic darling of the casual punter, despite having tried and failed to win the great race 11 times, while the brooding Fallon treads a much more troubled path but is adored by hardened backers for his refusal to give an inch when things get tough.

The two are good friends off the track, but all that will be forgotten when the stalls burst open for a race which looks relatively straightforward to assess from a tactical viewpoint.

Fallon seldom strays too far from the heels of the leaders in the Derby and will almost certainly be stalking them from an early stage on North Light, while Dettori gave Snow Ridge plenty to do in the 2,000 Guineas and is likely to favour patient tactics again until halfway.

Then comes the headlong spin round Tattenham Corner and a long, undulating straight which slopes sharply towards the inside and can scupper the chance of any horse who lacks balance or staying power.

Meath is widely regarded as a mere deputy for his injured stablemate Yeats, but he and Percussionist have the ability to stay in the mix for a long way.

American Post and Salford City and Let The Lion Roar could also figure if they handle the track, but most punters will be hoping that Frankie and Kieren will be leading the parade at the furlong pole.

Fallon has an enthusiastic galloper with scope for major improvement on his side in North Light, while Dettori will be praying that Snow Ridge's acceleration will prove crucial as he bids to win the race which would crown his glittering career. It's the age old Derby dilemma of whether to side with the grinder or the glider.

May the best horse win. And, speaking as someone who has lumped on Fallon's mount at 12-1, let that horse be North Light.