In form jockey Peter Knuckey has talked up the chances of Metallica in the perthracing.com.au Handicap (1200m) at Belmont on Wednesday.
Knuckey believes the Kellie Grantham-trained filly is poised to return to the winner’s list after two solid runs this time in.
Metallica finished strongly to be placed fourth behind My Rouge before a runner up placing to Verscene who scored at Belmont on Saturday.
“She has drawn well in barrier six and her two starts have been real good runs,” said Knuckey.
“Verscene has franked the form and I think she is close to the mark.
“She is my best ride on the programme.”
Knuckey expects a strong showing from Dubai Escapade who will jump from barrier 11 in the Westspeed Nursery Handicap (1650m).
The George Daly-trained gelding has one placing from four starts and that was an eye catching third at his first run back this preparation.
Dubai Escapade settled ninth in a field of 15 before rattling home late with a big finish to be just a head away from Wombie’s Legacy over 1400m.
The three-year-old couldn’t quite back up at his next outing and although he was doing his best work late he was in no danger of reeling in Friar’s Luck and finished fourth.
“That run didn’t really suit and it will pay to go on his previous effort which was eye catching,” said Knuckey.
“He does have to overcome a wide barrier but it’s not an overly strong field.
“With two runs under his belt he should be primed and I expect him to be in the finish.”
School Rumble faces a big task on his return with top weight of 60kg in the Racing Radio 1206AM Handicap (1000m).
The former Lindsey Smith-trained galloper, now in the hands of Bob Turrell, hasn’t raced since trailing Like An Eagle last August.
The son of Sequalo has shown ability in the past and has a strong record at the journey with three wins and two placings from eight starts.
“He ran some good races in 2010 and last year ran second to Jim Taylor’s good mare Latoria,” said Knuckey.
“If Bob can get him back to that type of form you would like think he could play a part.”