Michael Freedman believes he’s finally found the key to talented Irish import Givemethebeatboys, who will line up in Saturday’s Listed Luskin Star Stakes (1300m) at Scone.

Givemethebeatboys has shown gradual improvement across his three local runs, culminating in a strong third behind Mazu in the Hall Mark Stakes last month.

“His first start in Australia was very good. He only got beaten a couple of lengths by some very good horses,” Freedman said.

“I probably erred in taking the headgear off him second-up but he didn’t really stretch out on a firm deck.”

“That touch of softness in the track last start was more to his liking and I was really happy with it.”

Freedman is confident the addition of visors and a slightly longer trip will bring the best out of the former Group 1-placed galloper in a field of 16 on Saturday.

“He put in a good performance and he has come on from it. Rather than just stopping and putting him out, I thought it was worth pressing on for one more,” he said.

With rain forecast and a softer surface expected, Givemethebeatboys looks well placed to improve again. His recent barrier trial suggests he’s held condition since last racing on April 19.

Track Givemethebeatboys and all runners in the Luskin Star Stakes with expert form guides and odds from leading betting sites in Australia.