Mick Price isn’t sure his Gr.1 Victoria Derby (2500m) runner Redwood Shadow (NZ) (Redwood) has the form to win the race but he believes he deserves his opportunity to have a shot at it.

“He worked very well there last Thursday and he’s ready for the race,” Price said of the Redwood gelding who is trained out of his Warrnambool stable.

Redwood Shadow will be having only his fourth start and at his most recent appearance he finished fourth behind fellow Derby contender Albarado in the Gr.3 Caulfield Classic (2000m).

“I think Redwood Shadow is capable of running first three or four but Albarado was strong winning at Caulfield and I can’t see him turning the tables on him,” Price said.

“Then there’s Cherry Tortoni. They are the two horses to beat.”

Redwood Shadow has drawn barrier 12 and will be ridden by Jye McNeil.