Rooney to reap more benefits

Prominent owner Merv Butterworth is poised to continue reaping the rewards of his decision to bypass the Inter Dominion.

Unhappy with the conditions of the series, Butterworth elected to scratch A G Hunter Cup hero Arden Rooney from the time-honoured Championship, which concludes with Sunday’s Final at Tabcorp Park Menangle.

As such, Arden Rooney has been aimed at local features, such as last weekend’s Terang Cup, which he captured in track record time.

The son of Bettors Delight will aim for a Cup hat-trick when he takes his place in Geelong’s flagship event on Saturday night, with Butterworth confident the gelding can annex the popular event despite his awkward draw.

Arden Rooney will begin from the outside of the second row for trainer-driver, Kerryn Manning.

“The draw isn’t the best, but it’s no different to Terang,” Butterworth said. “He will be driven the same way as Terang.

“He will be pushed forward at the start looking for the lead or ‘death’ and hopefully he can outstay them again.”

Citing Metro Mike as the main danger, Butterworth also rates Keayang Steamer as a major threat despite his disappointing first-up run.

Winner of his last two starts, Metro Mike has drawn to settle forward from barrier three, while Keayang Steamer will begin from barrier nine.

One of last season’s surprise packages, Keayang Steamer was unplaced in the Terang Cup when first-up from a six-month spell.

“Metro Mike is in good form and has the right draw to make a real go of it,” Butterworth said. “Keayang Steamer is a nice type and will certainly be fitter for the run.”

• PAUL COURTS