STREETFIGHTER NOW HEADED TO THE METROPOLITAN

PATCHED-UP Victorian stayer, Streetfighter, responded to a daring Kerrin McEvoy ride to win today’s Group 3 Newcastle Gold Cup, 2300m, at Broadmeadow.

Streetfighter, $9, earned a crack at the AJC Metropolitan at Randwick on October 3 after his short half head win over Lodge the Deeds, $4.20, with the $4 favorite Enzedex Eagle in third place.

Streetfighter has only 52kg in The Metropolitan but is now liable for a penalty and has firmed to $15 in Fixed Odds betting.

McEvoy thinks he has a strong chance in the feature staying race of the Sydney spring carnival. “He’s a genuine horse that is a real trier. He would have a chance in that for sure.”

Streetfighter worked after being caught three wide early but then was given a breather in front by McEvoy and held off the late challenge of Lodge the Deeds to win narrowly.

Part-owner Shawn Mathrick praised the courage of the six-year-old in scoring his eighth win. “He’s had three knee surgeries. He lives at the beach. We can't gallop him and because of that he’s always underdone. But he’s as tough as nails.”

Trainer Terry Mathrick was not at Newcastle to see the win of Streetfighter deciding instead to remain at home in Cranbourne with his son, Gary, who is recovering from serious injuries suffered in a car accident.

Shawn told how Gary ‘died at the scene of the accident 14 weeks ago’ but was resuscitated before being rushed to hospital. “He was thrown out the back window of the car, despite having his seat belt on and it was touch and go for a couple of weeks.”

Mathrick said Streetfighter would return from his home base for The Metropolitan. “If he wins that he might be a late nomination for the Melbourne Cup. This is the first year I haven’t nominated him.”