Oyster Lane out for maiden win at The Valley races
Maher and Eustace have locked in a run for promising colt Oyster Lane at Moonee Valley this Saturday, bypassing a midweek Benchmark 64 at Sandown in favour of metropolitan exposure.
The consistent three-year-old has drawn barrier two in the Ladbrokes SRM In Multis Handicap (1000m) and will be partnered by John Allen in what could be his breakthrough performance.
Jack Turnbull, Maher’s national assistant trainer, believes the colt’s narrow defeats at his first two starts show he’s ready to deliver.
“He’s been very close twice and the horses that beat him are Stakes-class,” Turnbull said. “It makes sense to chase a Saturday race while he's in this form.”
On debut, Oyster Lane finished just behind Sonofkirk at Caulfield before running second to the classy Shining Smile at Flemington – both excellent form references.
A win at The Valley could propel him into the Group 3 H D F McNeil Stakes (1200m) at Caulfield or the Listed McKenzie Stakes (1200m) at Moonee Valley later this month.
“He’s a talented horse and deserves this shot,” Turnbull added. “With luck in running, he should be right in the finish.”
The stable has also accepted with Angel Ladder, who may instead be sent to Adelaide for the Sportsbet Same Race Multi Handicap (1050m) at Morphettville.
To bet on Oyster Lane and other runners this weekend, explore Australia's leading online betting platforms for expert odds and betting bonuses.
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