In a year when our likely staying three year olds are falling off the perch, Moonovermanhattan has put his case forward as a likely Derby aspirant after his win at Moonee Valley in the Vase.

His only previous win in five starts was at Morphettville back in May, however, in his defence he has given the impression he would get further.

The 2040 metres of the Vase is a strong pointer for the Classic to be decided at Flemington on Saturday.

He was always perched up behind the leader, Zululand; all the way, it was just a matter of him obliging when Craig Newitt called upon him.

Mick Price summed the colt up as a good looking youngster,” he stands over quite a bit of ground, he’s a big clean winded colt with a lovely temperament and is quite sound.”

Atmosphere started favourite on the strength his second to Magicool at Flemington, while he ran on fairly he is still a maiden, that might help to illustrate the quality of our current three year old brigade.

The filly, Go Indy Go, who came home very well, will go to the Oaks and on the Vase run she can give them plenty of curry on Thursday week at headquarters.

Moonovermanhattan - Derby prospect