Leading local resistance against raiders

LOCALS are hoping to break a long hoodoo at Globe Derby tomorrow night.

Disregarding the 2022 edition, only one South Australian-trained pacer has won the state's Derby this century!

Successful in 2011, Glengowan is the only local winner of the Derby since No Frolicking in 1996.

The reason the aforementioned version - won by Jawsoflincoln - doesn't count, is it was restricted to SA three-year-olds only.

With Harness Racing SA opening the border again last season, Victorian youngster Our Vinnie proved too good in the Blue Riband.

This time around seven interstate raiders are engaged in the two heats, with each rated higher than the locals in betting markets.

Saifa is a $1.50 favourite in the opening qualifier for trainer Andy Gath, while the Emma Stewart-prepared Meteor Moth is a $1.20 hot shot in the second heat.

Stewart boasts a phenomenal record in the Derby, with three wins from the past five editions, including Our Vinnie.

Of the home state resistance, Fly The Banner is considered one of the leading prospects for underrated horseman Robbie Caton.

Boasting six wins and five placings from his 13 starts this term, Fly The Banner has drawn to settle in a prominent position from barrier two.

To be driven by Samantha Pascoe, the gelding is listed as a $21 chance against Saifa.

"He has done a terrific job this season, though I was disappointed in his last start when seventh in the Derby at Gawler," Caton said. "For whatever reason he was revved up that day and just didn't race right.

"His work has been fine since and everything is spot on with him, so hopefully that was purely an anomaly.

"With the Victorians over this is no doubt his biggest test, but I'm positive he will be competitive.

"For now the focus is just on getting into the Final, then we'll be hoping he can surprise a few in that."