VERVE HOLDS HER NERVE

Nerve Not Verve benefitted from a drop in class and a positive ride from Damien Oliver to score a game win at Moonee Valley tonight.

Ridden to a clear lead passing the 1600m start, Nerve Not Verve was at full stretch into the home straight but stayed on resolutely to hold out Crimson Ace and win the benchmark 78 handicap over 2040m.

Mike Moroney was particularly pleased to see the five-year-old daughter of Shocking win her fourth race.

“She was dropping back from Group Two level at Flemington last start and was hard fit tonight,” Moroney said.

“We had picked this race out for her however, it came up pretty competitive and she was originally an emergency but got into the race on scratchings and that’s how we gained Ollie as well as his original ride was scratched so it worked out well.

“The ride won the race - he had to use her a bit to get there but then she settled into a beautiful rhythm and was strong to the line, especially on the minimum weight.

“It’s great to get another win with her as she is already stakes-placed and has a future as a broodmare but I’m sure there are more races to be won with her. She's a lovely mare to train and a delight to have in the stable.”

Congratulations to Mr L Petagna, Mr G Devonport, Mr C F Lindberg, Mr S P Moutter and Mr M P Brown.