Meeting Overview

Going: Good4 (06/10)

Rail: True

The rail comes back to the true position, having been out 10m when last used on 20^th September. With little-to-no rain expected from now until late in the afternoon tomorrow, I’m expecting the track to remain a Good4 for at least the first half of the card. This being the case, it could again prove hard to make ground for the first few races, which can often be the case at Matamata with the 300m straight.

Best Bet

Race 5 - #2 DEVASTATE (Win)

He’s had excuses at both runs this time in. First-up at Hastings, he had to work extremely hard early and the race was run upside down, with it being one of the only races of the day where they made ground from the back. Second-up, he rallied hard for 3^rd despite not enjoying the conditions one bit at Awapuni. Now 3^rd up here on a better surface, Devastate looks well placed to get back into the winner’s circle despite the wide barrier. The 1600m start at Matamata has a long run into the first bend, therefore, if Ashvin Goindasamy can find a forward position without working too hard early, I expect Devastate to give a big sight. Will be taking the $6.50 currently available, I had him marked a $4.00 favourite in this race.

Next Best Bet

Race 6 - #1 LA CRIQUE (WINSURANCE – 2PLC)

Willing to back La Crique again second-up after not getting into the race first-up in the Gr.1 Tarzino Trophy. The Winsurance back to 2^nd place option at $5.50, or the $2.00 for her to place is the play for mine. I’m hoping the booking of Jasmine Fawcett is a lead to them going forward early on La Crique, in a race which looks to only have a moderate amount of early tempo engaged. If the race eventuates how I have mapped it, where La Crique ends up settling in the first couple and Legarto ends up going back from the wide gate, I would be more than happy to be on La Crique, on one of the options mentioned above.

Value Bet

Race 1 - #18 ZABMANZOR (Each Way)

Should Zabmanzor get a run, he looks well over the odds at $10/$3.30 in what looks an open maiden contest. The form out of his debut at Taupo has been strong, whilst the additional 100m here from a middle gate will suit. He looks to have more upside than most here, I had him rated a $5.00 chance in this field should he get a run, therefore happy to play the $10/$3.30 now.