Trainer Billy Healey’s perspective on Fifth Force’s last effort is somewhat more lenient than some observers might hold, but the gelding has a genuine chance to redeem himself at Ipswich on Thursday.

The six-year-old was hampered by a lack of clear running room in the concluding stages of a 1600m race at Sunshine Coast on September 27, finishing with determination for third place.

His next assignment is the Fouchard Racing Benchmark 62 Handicap (1680m), where he is drawn from barrier 10, a starting position that can be overcome with good race fitness.

“He didn’t have a lot of luck last start,” Healey agreed.

“If you look at his form he was plain at his two runs back but his first-up run at Ipswich he was caught wide up on the speed and it was probably not ideal where he was positioned.

“Second-up he was still racing a bit too freshly and keenly so we went back to the drawing board and took the blinkers back off.

“The kid rode him super the other day but maybe he was a bit stiff in a way just getting held up momentarily and had to work his way out wide but he was good late.”

The apprentice rider is Archie McColm, who claims three kilograms. Having had his first professional ride in April, McColm will again be aboard Fifth Force, bringing his weight down to 56 kilograms.

“His last race has become a good form race with the winner (Prochester) won again last week and this looks like a nice race tomorrow from a tricky draw.

“He can be in a decent enough spot midfield and hopefully with a bit of cover to track into the race.”

Check out the online bookmakers for the latest odds on Fifth Force.