Enquare upsets fancied rival Missy Longstocking in Listed Mode Stakes

JASON McLachlan was given a perfect welcome back to training when Enquare upset former nemesis Missy Longstocking yesterday.

Jockey Jim Byrne drives Enquare to victory over Missy Longstocking, rails. Picture: Jono Searle.

JASON McLachlan was given a perfect welcome back to training when Enquare got the better of former nemesis Missy Longstocking in the Listed Mode Stakes yesterday.

Enquare had twice placed to Missy Longstocking, a $1.65 favourite yesterday, during the winter, but turned the tables yesterday.

Splitting the pair was the eye-catching Splendora, who will relish getting out over further as the summer progresses.

The win means McLachlan is now a realistic chance of winning back-to-back Magic Millions Guineas for the same syndicator.

McLachlan won last year's Guineas with Saluter, who like Enquare, races in the colours of Slade Bloodstock.

"She's a gutsy filly and a good filly. She knows where the post is," McLachlan said.

"She was very immature when she was beaten by the favourite last time in."

McLachlan has only just returned from a stewards enforced break for personal reasons and winning jockey Jim Byrne paid tribute to his ability following the race.

"Full credit to Jason. He's had a tough time, but this is where he should be. Training good horses and training winners," Byrne said.

McLachlan is relishing the prospect of stepping Enquare, a daughter of Stratum, over more ground.

"Brad Rawiller is a good mate of mine and he used to ride her dam Skewiff and he said when we bought her this horse would love a mile because her mum did," McLachlan said.

"I've always thought the same."

Missy Longstocking surprisingly crossed and led at a very good clip, setting up the fast time of 1:9.15 and leaving herself a sitting shot.

Liam Birchley blamed being too fresh as the reason for her folding up late after looking the likely winner when turning.

"She was a bit fresh today," he said. "Last time first up she was at 1000m but the 1200m this time just found her out."

Birchley is committed to running in the Vo Rogue (1350m) later in the month before deciding whether to attempt the 1400m MM Guineas or pursue shorter targets.

Matt Dunn was lamenting that only another bound or two would have been needed for Splendora to get the prize.

"I tried to have her fresh enough, but she just couldn't quite get there," he said.

"Hopefully she can sneak into the field for the Magic Millions and if it is a dry track, the likely hard pace of that race should really suit her."