Joe Pride pair in Winter Challenge rematch

Estadio Mestalla may have delivered a $61 boilover in the Winter Stakes, but stablemate Accredited is tipped to hit back in Saturday’s Listed Winter Challenge (1500m) as the Rosehill track continues to improve.

Trainer Joe Pride is pleased with how both gallopers have come through their last-start performances but is confident that a firmer surface will suit Accredited, who prefers good ground.

“Estadio Mestalla probably prefers it dry too, but Accredited really comes into his own when the track is firm,” Pride explained.

“He’s my top seed going in, although there’s not much between them.”

Accredited’s track record backs that up, with six of his career wins coming on good-rated surfaces and one on a soft 5. His defeat in the Winter Stakes was likely influenced by the soft 7 conditions.

Pride admitted he misread the conditions heading into that race, saying the ground turned out worse than he had expected when deciding to leave the horse in the field.

“The track didn’t suit, and it probably flattened his finish,” Pride said. “We’ll get a better guide on Saturday with improved footing.”

Betting markets reflect Pride’s sentiment, with Accredited favourite at $4.60, while Estadio Mestalla sits at $7.50 following his upset victory.

Pride is also excited to unveil Reflect in the Traffic Warden @ Darley Handicap (1200m), a promising So You Think filly with potential to go through the grades in time.

“She’s got talent and she’s a beautiful mover,” Pride said. “She’ll appreciate longer trips and could be a filly to follow into the autumn.”

Get behind your pick in the Winter Challenge with the latest odds from top Australian betting sites.