It was a win for the city slickers at Avoca last Saturday when Caulfield trainer Luke Oliver claimed full points in the fourth leg of the nine-race Betfair King of the Bush series.

The question now is: can the bushies bite back?

The potential certainly exists, with Colac native Daryl Cannon and Corinella-based Ricky Maund well within striking distance in advance of this weekend’s legs, to be run at Sale and Terang on Sunday.

Maund has entered five from his stable at Terang and Sale, whilst Cannon has nominated two runners for both legs.

Luke Oliver excelled to collect 13 points at Avoca: 10 for winning the series’ fourth heat with Johan’s Love and a further 3 for Stella Command’s fourth placing.

Oliver now leads the series on 17 points, overtaking Brendan McCarthy who remains on 14.

McCarthy will be aiming for a repeat of the leg two win of Maccas Miss in the Terang heat, and may come up against as many as three Oliver runners. 

“I’m really happy with her.  My main concern was whether she’d get a run given there were 20 acceptors for the race, so I’m happy with her and happy she’s in,” McCarthy said.

Further information about the Betfair King of the Bush – including news, schedules, results, standings and information for trainers – can be found at www.kingofthebush.com.au.