Trainer Pat Webster knows the challenge that comes with backing up a debut winner, but he’s hopeful Dr Farthing can defy that trend when he lines up at Ipswich on Thursday.

The Toowoomba-trained gelding impressed on debut on October 25, prompting Webster to delay a planned spell after the son of Dirty Work continued to thrive.

“We expected him to win first-up,” Webster said. “He did the job well but he probably didn’t beat a lot in that race, but he did beat them well.”

Webster opted for the Barrier Reef Pools QTIS 3YO Benchmark 62 Handicap (1100m) at Ipswich instead of a tougher Doomben assignment due to a better draw.

“He has got good speed so I imagine he’ll be in the first couple early,” Webster said. “It is a lot harder to win at your second start after a maiden, though, but it’ll be interesting.”

Dr Farthing opened $2.50 favourite before easing to $3 with Les Tilley to ride.