Vaal runners, Thursday 6 August

Lucky Fish ambassadors Mike and Mathew de Kock’s Corrupt and Green Machine are set for what could be an exciting rematch in Race 1 over 2800m, a handicap for stayers that starts the meeting at the Vaal today.

When they met over 2600m on the inside track at Turffontein a month ago, Corrupt controlled the pace under an enterprising ride from Keagan De Melo and was never challenged. Green Machine got into gear very late and ran on well for second, beaten 3.30-lengths, and he’s now 2kg better off over the extra 200m.

Mat gave the stablemates equal winning chances and said: “Corrupt got a hefty penalty for that win, but he remains in good form and he’s running confidently. Green Machine is in excellent shape, doing well and should get a lot closer this time. Both should have no problem with the extra 200m. Green Machine will really relish the trip and could get the run of the race in the way we’re expecting it to shape.”

Three-year-old Cool Gambler, rested and gelded after his March debut, reappears in Race 5 over 1200m. Mat commented: “He’s still a bit aggressive in the morning, so we’re keeping him up the straight for his comeback. He’ll need the run and it’s on the sharp side. We’re hoping he can get a top three position on his natural ability, but whatever happens he will improve with the run.”

Mega Awesome steps up to 1700m in Race 7, and Mat believes he warrants inclusion in exotic bets. “What he shows us at home is better than what he’s produced at the track. On pedigree he’ll enjoy the extra. He’s done really well in his work, since his last run. It won’t come as a surprise to see a good effort here.”