Trainer Enver Jusufovic is putting Pinstriped’s last performance behind him as he gears up for another Group 1 challenge at Caulfield this weekend.

After finishing near the rear in the C F Orr Stakes (1400m) on February 8, the gelding will look to bounce back in the upcoming Futurity Stakes (1400m) on Saturday.

Jusufovic believes the race didn’t unfold as planned, with multiple runners attempting the same strategy.

“Going into the race, from barrier 10, I did the form, and the speed map, and the number one spot, and I think everybody had the same idea, was to be behind Mr Brightside,” Jusufovic said.

Despite expectations, jockey Craig Williams held Mr Brightside back instead of pressing forward, which impacted Pinstriped’s positioning.

“We didn’t have the speed out of the barriers to get in front of him early, so I said to Ben (Allen), hopefully something will be in the three-wide line, and you can track them, otherwise you will have to go back to last.

“I think by going back to last, he really switched off.”

Although beaten by nearly eight lengths, Jusufovic said Pinstriped’s sectional times were in line with those who finished between third and his final placing.

“I thought he would run on a bit better than what he did, so it was a bit of a head scratcher,” Jusufovic admitted.

Despite the setback, the trainer is confident the gelding is in top shape heading into the Futurity Stakes.

“Since then, the horse has felt great. He’s come on from that run, so there’s no reason not to run him in the Futurity as he’s usually a genuine horse.”

Veterinary tests before and after the race showed nothing concerning, and Pinstriped’s regular trackwork rider, Linda, has reported no issues.

“We’ve put him over a few poles during the week, just to switch things up, and that’s brightened him up a bit,” Jusufovic said.

“Sometimes you can overanalyse things, and it’s better to just move on. What’s happened, happened.”