The Melbourne Mail: Moonee Valley - 28th January 2023

Moonee Valley plays host to Saturday racing for the second week in a row, with a strong nine race card highlighted by the Group 2 Australia Stakes (1200m).

JIGSAW winning the Nick Johnstone Real Estate Christmas Stakes at Sandown Hillside in Australia.
JIGSAW winning the Nick Johnstone Real Estate Christmas Stakes at Sandown Hillside in Australia. Picture: Racing Photos

The Cindy Alderson trained Jigsaw has come back much stronger this time and can take the next step to Group 2 level after building a picket fence and chasing his fourth straight win on Saturday.

The son of Manhattan Rain has gone through his grades well this time in winning the Doveton Stakes and Christmas Stakes both at Listed level.

Race fitness could well prove to be a major factor over the closing stages with three of the eight runners first up and several others in the early stages of their preparation.

From barrier two, Daniel Moor should be able to control the tempo and if he can get a breather mid race and pinch a break on straightening, he will prove very tough to run down.

Jigsaw looked to have plenty up his sleeve when kept up to the mark with a searching jump out win over 800m at Cranbourne on January 16, which would have topped him off perfectly for Saturday's assignment.

The Gavin Bedggood trained Exeter, looks great value in race eight and saves his best for this track and trip.

 A sharp drop in class after racing in Benchmark 84 grade at his last two starts over this track and trip and soft draw should see him race closer to the speed.

The booking of Damien Oliver and quick back-up should see him play a major role in the finish.

 

THE MELBOURNE MAIL

Bet Of The Day: Race 7 #5 Jigsaw @$3.20

Each Way Play: Race 8 #4 Exeter @$7.00


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