Lubrication’s explosive first-up effort has connections confident he can further elevate his impressive 2024 profile when he lines up in the Group Three George Moore Stakes at Doomben.

The gelding produced a career highlight in May when capturing the $1 million The Archer (1300m) at Rockhampton, toppling eventual Group 1 winner Transatlantic.

Although The Archer will again be a major target in the autumn, trainer Matt Dunn is intent on securing a first black-type victory on Saturday in the George Moore Stakes (1200m).

Facing proven horses such as Caballus and last year’s titleholder Hidden Wealth, Lubrication will need to be at his best — but Dunn is buoyed by his exceptional first-up run when he stormed home to fall narrowly short behind Caspernova on November 15.

“He really stepped up last prep and I think he’s come back a bit better,” Dunn said.

“He has never run as well as that first-up in his life. He’d had five first-up goes and run third once.

“He had to go all the way back from a crumby gate and he finished his race off really well. He just missed the bob.

“He’s going great, and I think he’ll be very competitive on Saturday.”

Lubrication’s record at the Doomben 1200m is strong — eight starts for two wins and three placings — reinforcing Dunn’s confidence heading in.

A second attempt at The Archer remains firmly in the plans, pending how his summer preparation unfolds.

“Things need to fall into place in terms of the timing of his prep but certainly, he’s got a slot and if it fits in well we’ll be going there again for sure,” Dunn said.

Browse the latest George Moore Stakes betting markets via Australia’s leading bookmakers.