That certainly changed on Tuesday as the champion footballer-turned-trainer had a day to remember when Reggae Roc and Barmah Al prevailed.
“I normally come to Donald and get my butt kicked, so it’s been a great day actually,” he said.
His charge Reggae Roc belied a $41 starting price to win the Russ Studio Jewellers Benchmark 58 Handicap (1624m).
The eight-year-old, ridden by Neil Farley, revelled in the Soft 7 conditions to deny Anirishman in a slugfest.
“He’s been drawn awkwardly and caught on a limb a few times (of late), but today he drew (barrier) one and Neil had him in the perfect spot,” Archard said.
“The good flowing tempo suited him because he can overrace … once I knew it became a dogfight that he’d been there at the end, and he was.”
Archard said Reggae Roc, who took his career record to eight wins from 63 starts, was likely to contest races such as the Gunbower and Manangatang Cups later this preparation.
“He’s probably and ideal Gunbower or Manang Cup type horse, hopefully he’s good enough to compete and we’ll head that way,” he said.
Earlier in the program, Barmah Al, prepared by Rhys’ father Daryl, relished the staying journey and took out the Megelec Electrical Contractors Benchmark 58 Handicap (2210m).
Ridden by Alana Kelly, Barmah Al ($15) powered home impressively to beat Bannerton by 2 ¾ lengths.
“We thought we’d tip him out after last-start, but Neil Farley said he needed a tongue tie,” he said.
“He’d been swallowing his tongue and that’s why he’s been performing poorly … it did the trick.”