Intriguing battle within a battle

A BATTLE within a battle will take place during the opening event in Melton tomorrow night.

The 1720-metre event has attracted a solid field, including Maas Betting Again, which has won her last three starts for trainer Alison Alford.

Adding intrigue to the clash are stablemates I Am The Storm and Apollostorm, which have drawn along the second row with Maas Betting Again.

Like Maas Betting Again, the duo are in the midst of winning streaks, with each undefeated this season.

Successful during his final outing in 2025, I Am The Storm has scored at both starts this campaign.

The Emma Stewart-trained son of The Storm Inside was triumphant in Terang on May 19 before proving too good in Melton on June 6.

Kept fresh since, I Am The Storm will begin from barrier eight – the inside of the back row – with Mark Pitt holding the reins.

“We are very happy with the way he has come along,” Stewart said. “He did well in his two runs from a spell and another short let-up has done him the world of good.

“His work has been strong and he will take some beating.”

Ryan Sanderson will partner Apollostorm from gate 10, with the son of Art Major chasing his fourth consecutive win.

Apollostorm was triumphant in Melton on July 4.

“He has come back in terrific form this time in and I can’t see any reason for that to stop,” Stewart said. “There isn’t much between them and it will come down to who gets the right run.”

• PAUL COURTS