South Australian galloper Hucklebuck has made it two Melbourne Cup carnival wins, claiming the $1 million Emirates Stakes at Flemington.

Backing up after winning on Victoria Derby day, Hucklebuck ($10) just lasted to win the $1 million race.

The four-year-old went into the final Group One race of the four-day carnival considered a risk to cope with the distance but jockey Dom Tourneur was able to give his mount a perfect run.

Hucklebuck ran to the front at the 200m, claiming The Cleaner ($16) before holding out the fast-finishing Lucky Hussler ($7).

The Cleaner, who took up his customary role in front, held down the minor placing.

“There were a lot of doubters about the trip but I reckon he’s got a lot of friends now,” Tourneur said.

Hucklebuck is trained by Phillip Stokes and with eight wins in 13 starts his earnings have now gone past $1 million.