A focused spring and well-timed break have set up top filly Manaal for a strong return to the Sydney autumn carnival, starting with the Light Fingers Stakes.

Trainer Michael Freedman decided to give the three-year-old a spell after just three spring carnival starts to extend her racing career, a move that he’s pleased with.

“It was good to give her a nice spell and she really enjoyed it,” Freedman said.

“Her owner has always wanted to have a filly that could potentially race on as a four-year-old, so that was part of the thinking – to give her the best chance to continue racing beyond this season.”

Manaal’s busy two-year-old campaign saw her claim the ATC Sires’ Produce Stakes (1400m) and win the Furious Stakes (1200m) in the spring.

Despite drawing an awkward gate in 11 of 14 for this weekend’s race, Freedman remains optimistic, though he admits Manaal will need luck and a strong ride from jockey Jason Collett.

“If Jason can navigate a good path and give her a soft run early, she can be running home strongly,” he said.

Assuming all goes well, Manaal will aim for the Surround Stakes (1400m) at Randwick in two weeks, with potential plans for a winter carnival campaign in Queensland depending on her form.

“Longer-term, she could target the Stradbroke (Handicap),” Freedman added.

The Light Fingers Stakes (1200m) field includes top fillies like Golden Slipper winner Lady Of Camelot, Flight Stakes winner Lady Shenandoah, and the unbeaten Dance To The Boom.