Homesman states Caulfield Cup case with Underwood Stakes success

Caulfield: Underwood Stakes (Group 1) | 1m | 3yo+ | turf

Homesman moved into Stella Artois Caulfield Cup second favouritism after outbattling Darren Weir's Japanese import Tosen Basil in the Group 1 Hyland Race Colours Underwood Stakes on Sunday.

Homesman remains unbeaten at Caulfield, having kicked off his Australian career there with a narrow win over Almandin in the autumn. The Liam Howley-trained five-year-old son of War Front held off ex-Japanese galloper Tosen Basil, with multiple Group 1 winner Humidor third.

Charlie Appleby's Jebel Hatta winner Blair House showed he has arrived in Australia in fine fettle when finishing two lengths behind Humidor in fourth.

Homesman's co-owner Nick Williams said the Caulfield Cup was now the target for their Group 1 winner.

"He's a tough animal, there's no doubt about that. He's very genuine, very honest," Williams said. "Ben [Melham] gave him a great ride, he rated him beautifully. I think 1,800 metres is short of his optimum trip, but it's great to get the Group 1 up for him.

"That gives him ballot-free exemption into the Caulfield Cup, and I imagine all things being equal that's where we'll head."

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