Promising youngster's acid test

PROMISING youngster Matt Gregors Boy will face his "acid test" this weekend.

Racing in strong form for astute trainer Jamie Cassar, Matt Gregors Boy is engaged in Saturday night's Simpson Memorial at Club Menangle.

Such is the strength of the field assembled for the $50,000 feature, the three-year-old is among the outsiders at $26 with TAB Fixed Odds despite boasting five wins and a third from 10 starts.

Undefeated Victorian raider Always Hot heads the market at $1.30.

Prepared by record-breaking horsewoman Emma Stewart, Always Hot boasts a perfect record from five outings, with his wins including last season's Vicbred Super Series Final in Melton.

Always Hot returned from a four-month break to score with ease in Melton a fortnight ago.

As for Matt Gregors Boy, he has drawn barrier eight, but slots into six with the removal of the emergencies.

"This is without doubt his toughest race...a true acid test," Cassar said. "It's a cracking field with a few stars in it.

"That said, I've got no doubt he will be competitive and may even surprise a few.

"It would've been nicer if he drew closer to the pegs, but I won't be using that as an excuse.

"If he gets a good even run at them, I'm positive he will let them know he is there."