Lubrication’s dynamic first-up run has set the stage for another standout campaign as he heads into Saturday’s Group Three George Moore Stakes at Doomben.

The gelding enjoyed a breakthrough earlier this year with victory in the $1 million The Archer (1300m), toppling future Group 1 winner Transatlantic.

While a return to that race remains a longer-term aim, trainer Matt Dunn is firmly focused on securing Lubrication’s maiden black-type win this weekend.

It shapes as a stern test against topweight Caballus and reigning champion Hidden Wealth, but Dunn has been buoyed by Lubrication’s powerful fresh run over the same course and distance when narrowly beaten by Caspernova on November 15.

“He really stepped up last prep and I think he’s come back a bit better,” Dunn said.

“He has never run as well as that first-up in his life. He’d had five first-up goes and run third once.

“He had to go all the way back from a crumby gate and he finished his race off really well. He just missed the bob.”

Dunn says Lubrication’s strong Doomben 1200m record makes him a serious contender and believes a successful summer could set him up for another shot at The Archer.

“Things need to fall into place in terms of the timing of his prep but certainly, he’s got a slot and if it fits in well we’ll be going there again for sure,” he said.