The Ciaron Maher team looks set to test promising colt Oyster Lane at Moonee Valley this Saturday, favouring the city assignment over a midweek alternative at Sandown.
After two encouraging runner-up finishes in Saturday-class company, Oyster Lane is locked in for the Ladbrokes SRM In Multis Handicap (1000m) at The Valley.
Jack Turnbull, Maher’s national assistant trainer, confirmed they weighed up a Benchmark 64 for three-year-olds at Sandown next Wednesday, but the colt’s strong recent form tipped the decision toward a city weekend start.
“We gave thought to both options, but his form deserves a crack at a Saturday win,” Turnbull said. “He’s been so close and is knocking on the door.”
Oyster Lane has impressed in both his outings, finishing second to Sonofkirk over 1000m at Caulfield on debut and then being edged out by multiple Stakes winner Shining Smile in the straight dash at Flemington on July 19.
“He’s still a maiden but only just – he’s been beaten by top-class types,” Turnbull said. “It’s not easy when you bump into a three-time Stakes winner early in your career.”
A victory on Saturday could pave the way for a tilt at the Group 3 H D F McNeil Stakes (1200m) at Caulfield on August 30 or the Listed McKenzie Stakes (1200m) at The Valley a week later.
With John Allen taking the reins from barrier two, the stable expects Oyster Lane to settle close to the pace in Saturday’s dash.
“If he jumps cleanly, he should be right on speed,” Turnbull added.
Angel Ladder, another Maher-trained runner, is dual accepted and may head to the Sportsbet Same Race Multi Handicap (1050m) at Morphettville instead of contesting at The Valley.
Punters interested in backing Oyster Lane or Angel Ladder can find competitive odds at trusted betting sites in Australia.