NEXT UP

Trainer Michael Trotter registered his biggest victory when Rumbled Again took out a Stakes race at Caulfield late last year. 

At Moonee Valley on Friday night, Trotter will be out to improve on that when in form mare Apache Song runs in the Group 2 Australia Stakes (1200m). 

It will be a major jump in grade for Apache Song, but Trotter is banking on the mare's liking for the Moonee Valley circuit being a major plus. 

Apache Song has raced at Moonee Valley on four occasions, registering wins in her past three starts, all over Friday night's trip, with gradual increases in grade, the most recent being in benchmark 78 company. 

Trotter has witnessed the mare's improvement this campaign and is keen to try her against the likes of Southport Tycoon and Schwartz with a fit and in-form mare. 

With late nominations called for, Friday night's race has been boosted with the inclusion of Another Prophet, It'sourtime and Along The River now among entries. 

Damian Lane has been booked for the ride on Apache Song. 

"She had some pretty lofty heights set upon her early doors and this time around we've been able to go through her grades," Trotter said. 

"She's continued to thrive because of that and now is as good a time as any to give her a try in a good race and being at The Valley where she thrives, why not." 

Apache Song was placed at Listed level at her second start but has gradually improved and strengthened with age this campaign. 

Trotter said Apache Song had gained confidence from winning her past three outings. 

"From day one she showed us something and there is always something about those horses that have a bit of talent, they show you something different in the way they get around the place," Trotter said. 

"She's a bit like Rumbled Again. She was the same, she showed the same talent when I broke her so it's nice to see Apache furnish and develop and do all the right things on race day. 

"Southport Tycoon is obviously going to be hard to beat as is Schwartz, but if we could pick up a Group 2 placing that would be great. 

"I think we're a genuine top four chance, so you never know." 

Meanwhile Trotter said Rumbled Again was back in work following her last start win in the Summoned Stakes (1600m) at Caulfield on November 30 and is being readied for a return run in the Group 3 Mannerism Stakes (1400m) at Caulfield on February 22. 

He said Rumbled Again's autumn target was the Group 2 Sunline Stakes (1600m) at Moonee Valley on March 22.