Ryan’s $9.50 roughie can rattle favourite

Gerald Ryan goes into Saturday’s Grand Prix with Matias knowing he has the perfect preparation and the right form.

The Snitzel gelding has opted for the Eagle Farm Group 3 over Randwick and the 1800m should suit him.

His $9.50 quote, in relation to $2.90 favourite John Dory appears generous.

“We should have got a lot closer to the favourite a couple of runs ago at Canterbury when we had to go around them and gave him too much start,” Ryan said, “he was strong at the end, so the extra trip is in our favour.”

“We were looking at this race then, so we took him to Newcastle where he won a Maiden over 1500m and needed every bit of the trip.”

“The winner from that race [Viewpoint] has come out and won since, so the form is good, and he will enjoy the 1800m.”

Matias was well supported first-up in a Rosehill Super Maiden, when runner-up to Long Legs, before getting within three-quarters of a length of John Dory with a late surge at Canterbury.

He broke 34 seconds for his final 600m at Newcastle and will get the services of Michael Rodd in the Grand Prix.

“He has got the draw [eight] to be closer if we want, and as he has stepped up in trip, he is getting better,” Ryan said. “He has that win now and that always helps and you will see a strong staying type in Brisbane.”

“We have had quite a bit of success with Michael Rodd and it’s good to get someone like him on Matias up there.”