Trainer Matt Smith says punters should forgive Astero’s last start and instead focus on his impressive Civic Stakes performance.

The gelding ran a solid third at Listed level in June before fading in the Winter Stakes after being caught on the speed in a fast-run race.

Freshened up with a barrier trial and time at the farm, Astero is ready to bounce back in Saturday’s NSW Jockeys Association Handicap (1300m).

“He was on the speed all the way last start and they went hard so he didn’t finish off after a tough run,” Smith said.

“His run before that was excellent… He looks outstanding.”

Astero has strong wet-track form and has firmed from $51 to $23 for the Rosehill feature.

Meanwhile, Smith’s star sprinter Headwall is preparing for a Warwick Farm trial ahead of a spring aimed at securing an Everest slot.

“He is trialling next Friday and he’s going super,” Smith said.

The Concorde Stakes (1000m) and The Shorts (1100m) are among his early targets.