A start in a stakes race at Flemington is on the cards for Crestani when the gelding heads to Moonee Valley for his return run following a short break.

The Group 3 Standish Handicap (1200m) at Flemington on January 14 is in the planning for the Pat Carey -trained galloper if he runs well on Saturday.

Crestani is scheduled to contest the Raymond Martin Handicap (1200m) which will be his first run since finishing sixth at Ballarat in November 19.

The son of Nicconi finished sixth to Mnementh on a track that started out in the good range but following continual rain ended up a Heavy 8 by the time Crestani’s race was run.

Carey had an air of confidence about Crestani prior to his last start with the gelding dropping to 51.5kg after the claim for Alana Kelly.

However heavy rain before the first race that continued throughout the day, ruined those hopes.

“The day went from bad to worse track wise, from a good track to a heavy one and being one of the last races of the day, it was just a nightmare,” Carey said.

“He went and had a little bit of a freshen up after that and he came through that good.

“He’s been in good form and good order since and he had a nice jump-out at Balnarring in which he went very well.

“He’s got good fresh form and he has residual fitness on his side and if he can run well on Saturday, then he might not be out of place in a race like the Standish.

“He doesn’t have to win, as long as he runs well, that’s the main thing.

“There is no use committing before he runs as you could finish anywhere.”

Crestani rises to 58.5kg on Saturday and will be ridden by Craig Williams for the first time on Saturday.

“He was available and should ride him well,” Carey said.