Despite the date, Ireland's show jumpers had a supremely lucky Friday the 13th, repeating the incredible Falsterbo/Lummen Nations Cup double scored during last year's record-breaking 10 victories in the Samsung series.

Double clears from Cian O'Connor (Waterford Crystal) and Army rider Lieutenant David O'Brien (Boherdeal Clover) in the Swedish round at Falsterbo finally gave Ireland the edge over Germany after defeats in the Ikast and Modena.

Kevin Babington, a member of our gold medal team in Arnhem, was foot-perfect throughout the two rounds in Belgium to pave the way for the Lummen win. But last man in Robert Splaine had to put the stallion Coolcorron Cool Diamond into overdrive to beat the home side on the clock.

The double win now moves Ireland, runaway series winners last term, up into the top six in the Samsung league for the first time this season. Just six teams compete will earn their slot in the series final at Madrid in September.