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A statement from jockey John Kissick has trainer Neville Layt buoyant about the chances of Southern Gamble on his home track at Queanbeyan on Monday.

Kissick was aboard Southern Gamble last start when he was gathered in late before finishing third, beaten just 0.6 lengths, behind Captain Fastbuck and Domarosa over 2000m at Moruya on February 26.

“Young John said if he had sat a bit longer and waited Southern Gamble would have won,” Layt revealed. “Hopefully they can make amends on Monday.”

Southern Gamble lines up in the allbids.com.au Benchmark 55 Hcp over the same trip.

Moruya was only the Casino Prince four-year-old’s second run back from a five week lay-off after resuming with an encouraging third to Magic Rose over 1350m at Braidwood on February 13.

Southern Gamble led at Moruya and Layt expects him to take up a similar role at Queanbeyan.

“He likes to bowl along,” Layt added. “The horse is going terrific at the moment. I think the 2000 metres is going to suit him right down to the ground. He’s pulled up good after Moruya and he likes racing at home. It looks a nice race for him.”

Southern Gamble is raced by Layt and his wife, Barbara. He was purchased as a yearling with one bid of $6000 at the Inglis Classic sale in Sydney.

“The reason I liked him was because back in his pedigree was Kenquest,” Layt said. “I trained Kenquest to win a Parramatta Cup in Sydney and I thought Southern Gamble would turn into a handy stayer.

“He’s only won two races but recorded 15 placings. He’s the most consistent little horse you could have. He’s as honest as they come.

“He’s done a treat since his last run and fitness wise he’s at his peak.

“We’ll push forward early on Monday and hopefully he’s got enough in hand to hold them off.”