THUNDER AT YARRA VALLEY

Johnny Thunder and Bellows are our two Friday runners at Yarra Valley.

Johnny Thunder is in the second race, the 3YO Maiden Plate over 1200m where he will be ridden by Fred Kersley.

Johnny Thunder led and weakened late when unplaced last time out at Sandown and Mike Moroney feels the shorter trip today will suit the son of Nostradamus.

“He’s a speedy horse and he led them up for a good way last start,” Moroney said. “The drop back in distance will be in his favour and from barrier two he gets the right draw to be right on speed.

“Although it’s a Friday provincial meeting he’s drawn what looks to be a strong field with some decent formlines and a couple of first-starters from good stables.

“Our horse is in good order, is fit and drawn to be in this for a long way so I’m expecting him to run well in what does look a good class race.

Bellows (pictured) runs in the seventh race, the benchmark 58 handicap over 1200m with Jake Noonan in the saddle.

Bellows has run well for fourth at his last two starts and has the advantage of the inside draw.

“He got back and finished of alright last start at Echuca where he was drawn the outside so the good barrier today we can ride him closer,” Moroney said.

“He’s as fit as we can get him and he’s good enough to be winning a race like this, especially if you go by his work. He’s started favourite his last four starts and this looks an open race so I’m confident he will run well again."