Staying specialist Mormona is out to grab a golden ticket into the Melbourne Cup when he tackles the Group 3 Archer Stakes (2500m) at Flemington on Saturday.

The Archer offers a “win and you’re in” pass for the Cup and has drawn a field of 12 after Smokin’ Romans was withdrawn. Trained by Annabel and Rob Archibald, Mormona steps out second-up following a solid resuming run at Caulfield on August 30.

Imported from France, where he scored over 3000m, the gelding finally posted his maiden Australian win at his 11th attempt in July’s Deane Lester Flemington Cup 1849 (2800m). That victory followed a productive Sydney winter campaign before a switch to Melbourne.

“He’s an out-and-out stayer,” Rob Archibald said. “We freshened him slightly after Flemington and he’s come back in good shape. His closing effort at Caulfield was encouraging and stepping up to 2500m will really suit.”

Archibald added that while timing has been tight, the horse has thrived with a short break and beach work. “The further he goes, the better he’ll be. His first-up effort ticked the box, now we’re looking to progress again.”

Regular rider Michael Dee remains aboard for Saturday’s test.