McEvoy being ‘eaten alive’ Down Under

Former Godolphin jockey Kerrin McEvoy has been told to raise his game as he continues to struggle to adapt to race riding back in his native Australia.

McEvoy returned Down Under to become No1 rider for the Australian arm of Sheikh Mohammed's Darley operation two months ago, but has picked up suspensions and come in for almost constant criticism for his riding tactics.

And now Ray Murrihy, the Racing New South Wales steward whose contribution to last year's Old Bailey race-fixing trial was lambasted by all concerned, has delivered an ultimatum to the rider.

Murrihy said: "I told you when you got back that they [rival jockeys] will eat you alive if you let them dictate your position. Tactics are what win races, we are trying to help you."

Senior steward Steve Railton joined in the attack on the 28-year-old.

He said: "You've been spoken to a few times about your tactics. For a rider of your ability, we expect you to adapt by now."