With 500/1 outsiders Italy taking the honours on 12 faults, Ireland could only claim one clear round, from Denis Lynch and 'Lantinus', but the combination then faulted twice second time out.

Only Cian O' Connor and 'Rancorrado' improved their score, with just one fence down in the second round, while Billy Twomey and 'Je t'Aime Flamenco' had eight faults in each round. Cameron Hanley and 'Southwind VDL' were the second round discard score on 12 faults.

However, Ireland ended the eight-round season on sufficient points to remain in the Meydan Series super league for 2010, one of the world's top ten teams. France were the 2009 winners of the series after today's final.Afterwards Horse Sport Ireland Team Manager Robert Splaine said: "Today's result was obviously disappointing for us, but it was the end of the series and we did stay in the Meydan league for next year, and we did win one leg outright. For that I'd like to thank all the riders, owners and grooms. We were well organised and there was a great team spirit."