Spankem wins Cup trial

By Dave Di Somma - Harness News Desk

Spankem has again shown he’ll be a contender next Tuesday.

The runner-up in the New Zealand Cup last year has won tonight’s Cup trial at Addington for driver Natalie Rasmussen, on a 54.9 last half.

It was an All Stars 1-2 with Self Assured sitting parked for much of the trial with 2018 New Zealand Cup champion Thefixer sticking on for fourth.

Northern hope Copy That was not hurried in the proceedings early for Blair Orange, who’s gunning for back to back New Zealand Cups after his win with Cruz Bromac last year.

While Copy That wasn’t pressured in the run home trainer Ray Green was satisfied with the run and pleased he stepped well, especially as he’s drawn one in the big race on Tuesday.

But not happy with his charge’s start was Self Assured’s driver Mark Purdon. He bobbled at the start losing some ground and that has Purdon with some concerns ahead of Tuesday.