The Ciaron Maher stable has signalled its intent by opting to run promising colt Oyster Lane at Moonee Valley on Saturday in the Ladbrokes SRM In Multis Handicap (1000m).

Twice placed from two starts in Saturday city class, Oyster Lane bypasses a midweek option at Sandown in favour of chasing a breakthrough win at The Valley.

“As he’s racing in good form it would be rude not to give him a chance of winning a Saturday race,” said Jack Turnbull, Maher’s National Assistant Trainer.

Oyster Lane has finished runner-up to quality horses—first to Sonofkirk at Caulfield, then to three-time stakes winner Shining Smile at Flemington.

“He’s only been beaten a head and a neck… we know we have a pretty talented colt,” Turnbull said.

A win on Saturday could pave the way for a start in the Group 3 H D F McNeil Stakes or Listed McKenzie Stakes later this month.

John Allen rides from barrier two, with Turnbull expecting the colt to settle on speed.

Stablemate Angel Ladder may instead head to Adelaide for the Sportsbet Same Race Multi Handicap (1050m) at Morphettville.