Full steam ahead in Final

CONNECTIONS of handy freshman Steam Machine hope history can repeat itself this weekend.

In what was his second start, Steam Machine broke his maiden by capturing the Southern Stars Final at Globe Derby last May.

Poised to return to the same venue tomorrow night, the David Drury-trained gelding will contest the Southern Stars Plus Final!

"Both races are associated with the sale over here," Drury explained. "One was only for those sold through the sale, while the other is open to whoever pays the fee.

"He won the first one, now hopefully he can do it again in the second one.

"It's going to be harder this time, but he'll be doing his best."

To be driven by Drury, Steam Machine will begin from barrier three over 1800 metres, with the son of Captain Crunch likely to be sent forward at the start.

"I'm happy with the draw," Drury said. "It gives us options from there.

"Emma's (Stewart) horse My Bettor Half is clearly the one to beat from barrier four.

"She went huge in the Vicbred Final last week and will certainly be hard to hold out."