‘Counter’ back in action at Werribee after setback

Cross Counter, one of Godolphin’s contingent of G1 Melbourne Cup contenders, is back on target to line up at Flemington on the first Tuesday in November.

The Teofilo gelding has completed his first piece of strong work at Werribee since an injury hiccup — and he has come through it bright and sound.

The Charlie Appleby-trained stayer sustained a cut to his leg and was on the ‘easy’ list for a few days.

Chris Connett, the stable’s representative at Werribee, said today: “It was his first bit of proper work and he looked good. It was solid without being flashy, which is pretty much what we expected.

“He has pulled up well and the injury looks really good. His recovery has been very quick. It’s all going well, and he will have another strong gallop at Werribee on Saturday,” he added.

Appleby is on record as saying he has no concerns about Cross Counter’s fitness levels. “He had completed all his work and was racefit when he left for Australia,” Appleby said.

“The setback was annoying but everything seems back to normal and now we are looking forward to the Cup,” the trainer added.