Sandgroper,

No one on the east coast has ever doubted the heart and fighting spirit of this great horse, just how he has been handled.
Fred was on Racing Radio in NSW this morning and when asked, answered directly that he was unhappy with the ride on Saturday. This led to speculation by the program's host and other contributors that Greg Childs will replace P. Payne for Northerly's next preparation. That is after he has enjoyed a well-earned rest(although it must be said that the Sydney way of going may not entirely suit him).

Cheers.