He will be a lot sharper, Matt Craven says of Group 1 Prince hope

08 March 2017 | Paul Courts of harnessnews.com.au
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Matt Craven drives Magicool to victory at Tabcorp Park.

Matt Craven drives Magicool to victory at Tabcorp Park.

Talented youngster Magicool is in a strong position to claim his second Group 1 at Tabcorp Park Melton on Saturday night.

Successful in the Empire Stallions Vicbred Platinum last December, Magicool is engaged in the Need For Speed Prince Final for trainer Matthew Craven.

Scoring first-up in his heat a fortnight ago, the son of Tennotrump haw drawn barrier two, with Craven confident the trotter can continue his winning form.

“From there he shouldn’t have any trouble settling in a good position early,” Craven said. “He is not the quickest out and it’s likely he will be in the running line.

“If he does show a bit of speed out of gate I would be more than happy to lead. He has definitely benefited from his run in the heat and will be a lot sharper this time.”

Citing Posseidon as the main danger, Craven is also weary of Kheiron and Illawong Byron.

Posseidon will come out of gate four, with Kheiron in six and Illawong Byron – winner of last season’s Redwood Classic – drawn the second line.

“Posseidon and Kheiron are both quick beginners, so they’re likely to go forward in search of the lead,” Craven said. “Illawong Byron is a nice type, which will be better for his two runs back.

“Coming from the second row may help Illawong Byron if there is plenty of early speed, as he will be sitting back and waiting to finish strongly. It’s a pretty nice field and hopefully we can come out with a win.”

More trots coverage at harnessnews.com.au

 

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