Plague Stone set for rematch with Zoustyle
Plague Stone (left) has beaten older sprinters to win the Listed Lightning Handicap at Doomben.
Plague Stone earned a rematch with boom sprinter Zoustyle after he won the Listed Lightning Handicap at Doomben.
Ridden by Larry Cassidy, Plague Stone justified his $1.95 quote when he held off a brave challenge from Tycoon Ace ($31) to win by a short neck with Amanaat ($21) three quarter of a length away third.
“The plan before today was to back-up next week in the Daybreak Lover,” Godolphin spokesman Vin Cox said.
“We’re not saying we can definitely beat Zoustyle but we’ll provide him with some good competition.”
Zoustyle had the edge on Plague Stone when they last clashed at Doomben on May 18 to maintain his unblemished record.
Trainer James Cummings also has the Group Three Healy Stakes (1200m) at Eagle Farm on June 22 as another option for Plague Stone if he decides against backing up next week.
Meet Mr Taylor dispelled any doubts about his ability to handle 1200 metres when he outsped his rivals in the TAB Class 6 Plate.
“He’s a funny horse. Every run he’s had just for a fleeting moment you think ‘uh-oh’ and then ‘nah, he’s right’,” trainer Kelly Schweida said.
“Winning today at 1200 metres opens up a lot of options for him rather than having to just keep him to 1000m only.”
Leading throughout with apprentice Corey Bayliss aboard, Meet Mr Taylor, the $1.95 favourite, defeated Jami Lady ($3.30) by 1-1/4 lengths with Gaulois ($10) a fast-finishing third.
The gelding ran the final 600 metres in a slick 33.90 seconds with his final 200m sectional in 11.60, making it impossible for his rivals to overhaul him.