Consistent sprinter Crystal Dreamer has returned to winning form with a strong on-pace win at Sandown.
The Mathew Ellerton and Simon Zahra-trained sprinter took out the Listed Doveton Stakes (1000m) on Saturday following a smart ride from Damian Lane.
Following on from a last start second behind Ball Of Muscle at Flemington on Oaks day, Crystal Dream was sent out the $3 favourite before scoring by 2-1/4 lengths from Lady Esprit ($18) with Gun Case ($6.50) a head away third.
“Damian controlled the race on him today and he was well in the race with just a kilogram above the minimum,” Ellerton said.
“My only concern with him was backing up from Oaks day, but he did that with ease.”
Ellerton described Crystal Dreamer as a solid sort of sprinter, although he did lose his way at Morphettville in September.
The co-trainer said Crystal Dreamer was tightened between runners on that occasion before striking trouble in a pleasing sixth at Caulfield.
“His run wasn’t too bad as the first three out were the first three home and he got spat out the back at the start,” Ellerton said.
“But he showed he’s right back to his best with that win today.”
Where Crystal Dreamer now heads will require some consultation with Zahra.
One option might be the Standish Handicap at Flemington on January 1, although Ellerton has reservations about the son of Stratum running a strong 1200m.
“He might start to get a bit tricky to place now,” Ellerton said.
“We’ll see how he pulls up and no doubt we’ll find something else for him.”