After suffering his first Australian defeat, Dice Roll will attempt a return to winning form at Flemington.
Nick Ryan is confident Dice Roll can bounce back from a shock defeat at Flemington when he returns to that track on Saturday.
The French-bred galloper is down to run in the Sir Eugene Gorman Handicap (1600m), his second try at the trip in Australia.
Dice Roll, who began his career in France before making his way to Hong Kong, won his first three starts for Ryan and was expected to stretch that out to four at Flemington on July 3.
Sent out a heavily-backed $1.65 favourite, Dice Roll let his backers down, finishing fourth to Mongolian Marshal in the VRC/CRV Winter Championship Final (1600m).
Dice Roll found himself in an unsuitable role, in front, which Ryan said contributed to his defeat.
“He pulled up super from the run and if anything, it probably brought him on a bit and he’s really trained on well,” Ryan said.
“I really think the race wasn’t run to suit him as they went slow. He was left in front and he got a bit lost doing that and wasn’t able to build momentum.
“He’s a much better chaser, so hopefully we’ll find there’ll be a leader and that will suit him.”
Despite rising from 55.5kg to 59kg, Fred Kersley retains the ride.
“Fred’s done nothing wrong on him and he deserves the chance again,” Ryan said.
Ryan has however elected to claim on last start Flemington winner Express Pass in the Trevor Clarke Handicap (1000m) engaging Matthew Cartwright with his 2kg claim bringing the sprinter in with 59kg.
Express Pass won over Saturday’s course and distance on June 19 before spending a week in the paddock.
“He’s come back terrific and looks so well for a horse at this time of year,” Ryan said.
“He’s dappled up and looks really good in the coat.
“He had a soft little jump-out last Friday and I really happy with him.”
