Warwick Farm trainer Matt Smith was confident Headwall would improve “big time” after staking a claim for an Everest slot with a first-up victory in the $1 million Concorde Stakes (1000m).

Under Zac Lloyd, the six-year-old came from the second last pairing approaching the turn to round the field and hit the lead inside the final 100m. After a sustained sprint, he held off Chris Waller-trained star Lady Shenandoah by a short head.

It was Headwall’s biggest result, and Smith, who had not fielded interest from Everest slot-holders, was relieved and ready to take calls for a spot in the October 18 $20 million race.

“Hopefully, someone will give us a call,” Smith said.

He said Headwall had come back heavier than for his first-up run last preparation “so there’s improvement to come”.

“You j

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