GERALD Ryan believes the 'knock' on Rubick following his Blue Diamond Prelude win is off the mark, reports Racing Network. Bookmakers reacted to Rubick's fading one length win by easing his price for the $1 million race and promoting Earthquake, winner of the Fillies Prelude to favorite.

"I think people have been a bit harsh on him," Ryan said. "Yesterday was his most vulnerable. Those colts that could not beat him yesterday will not beat him in a fortnight. All those who tried to go with him (yesterday) finished well behind him. He will improve off that run." 

Ryan noted that Rubick ran sectional splits of 10.3 seconds between the 1000 m and 800 m and 10.4 seconds from the 800 m and 600 m. 

He described as "extraordinary" that Rubick was able to sustain that early speed then rally in the straight. Sectional split analysis of the Preludes also revealed that Rubick ran the first 500 metres in the equivalent of seven lengths faster than Earthquake. 

But, Ryan said he has nothing but admiration for Earthquake, which despite wobbling around the home turn powered away over the concluding stages.