Linebacker will return to familiar territory at Rosehill, the site of his biggest career victory, aiming to turn the tables in the upcoming race.

The talented runner was outpaced by Public Attention in his season debut, but co-trainer John O’Shea believes he has strong claims to reverse the result in the Hobartville Stakes.

Not only will Linebacker meet his previous rival at equal weights this time, but he is also expected to be much fitter after that initial outing—his third in the past ten months.

Adding to O’Shea’s confidence is the fact that Linebacker secured his biggest career win at this very track and distance in the Group 3 Baillieu Handicap at Rosehill last autumn.

“He has never won over six furlongs (1200m), so we were a little wary of his first-up run,” O’Shea explained.

“His execution wasn’t quite right, but we expect a much better showing this time.

“Last time, he carried two-and-a-half kilos more and was beaten just over a length. Now he’s back at his preferred 1400 meters at Rosehill, which should suit him better.”

Linebacker was forced to race prominently in the Eskimo Prince Stakes (1200m), leading for most of the trip—something O’Shea hadn’t intended.

In response, the stable has made a slight gear adjustment for this weekend’s race.

“We’ll add a cross-over noseband to help him settle a bit better,” O’Shea said.

The Hobartville Stakes field is packed with talent, featuring a strong lineup of 11 runners, including Cox Plate third-place finisher Broadsiding. He makes his return under jockey Zac Lloyd, as his regular Sydney rider James McDonald is committed to riding Romantic Warrior in the Saudi Cup (1800m).

Public Attention, looking for back-to-back wins this season, will have to navigate the race from the outside barrier, while Linebacker has drawn a more favorable gate in barrier seven, positioned just inside Broadsiding.