Gangbuster To Break Williams’ Dominance In Roberts Stakes Says Andrews

Posted on March 10, 2017 | Posted by Julio Santarelli

Trevor Andrews has high hopes Gangbuster can end the dominance of trainer Grant Williams in the J.C.Roberts Stakes at Ascot on Saturday.

The Williams stable has won the past three editions of the Roberts Stakes with Heart Starter (2016), Battle Hero (2015) and Respondent (2014).

Williams’ wife and co trainer Alana will pin their faith in a fourth Roberts Stakes with top hopes Final Salute and Western Temple.

But Andrews believes Gangbuster can maintain his edge over the Williams’ duo after they clashed in the Listed Lex Piper Stakes last-start.

Gangbuster claimed bragging rights when he finished powerfully to defeat Western Temple by ¾ of a length. Final Salute ran on for third.

Andrews said Gangbuster was showing positive signs and building critical momentum ahead of next month’s WA Derby (2400m).

“I’m really pleased with the way he has progressed since his last-start,” Andrews told TABradio’s The Sports Daily.

“He is obviously on his way to the Derby so you just want to tighten the screws up a little bit after each run.

“He has no issues and his work has been pleasing.

“Jarrad (Noske) was quite glowing of his track work on Tuesday so I think the horse is in a good space.

“He is showing nice progression and doing everything right at the moment.”

Gangbuster heads the TAB market at $2.90. He has drawn favourably in barrier two for Noske.

Final Salute holds second favouritism at $3.80. The Not A Single Doubt gelding and jockey William Pike combine from gate eight.

Andrews can join Williams as a three time winner of the Roberts Stakes after The Right Money won in 2003 and Heroicity in 1992.