Off the ropes for a knockout win

IT TOOK a bout longer than hoped, but Rocky Creed has scored a knockout at Club Menangle.

Making his debut at the world class venue a fortnight ago, Rocky Creed led as a $2.70 favourite, but was on the ropes along the home straight before finishing towards the tail of the field.

Although he fell short of having Rocky Creed chase chickens during the interim, trainer James McPherson did adopt different tactics after the gelding’s lacklustre performance.

“He led at his first run in Menangle which didn’t really suit him,” McPherson said. “He’s never really been comfortable in front, even when he led and won in Leeton earlier this year.

“That and it being his first look at the track, he just didn’t go as well as he can.

“Tonight he was driven with a sit and he went along much better.”

With Jack Trainor in the cart Rocky Creed was restrained towards the tail of the field from barrier eight as the favourite Jazzy Star led from gate five.

Last at the top of the home straight, the son of Pet Rick unleashed a scintillating sprint to reach the front in the final stride, completing a neck win from Mondooley Heaven.

Smooth Baht was a metre away third in 1:54.3 over the mile.

“He finished off sensationally,” McPherson said. “With something to chase he keeps his mind on the job and really knuckles down.

“There is another race for him here in a couple of weeks, so that is the way I will head.

“After that I will just see what is around and take it from there.”