Lightly raced Irish import The United States has won his first race in Australia with a late charge at Moonee Valley.

Having his fourth start in Melbourne after being in Australia for almost two years, The United States ran over the top of his rivals to claim the Sweeney Estates Agents Handicap (1500m) on Saturday.

Ridden by Damian Lane, The United States ($9) scored a half-head win from Abbasso ($6) with Letmedowngently ($12) a long head away third.

Nick Williams, representing the owners which include his father Lloyd, said The United States needs to improve to be competitive in the bigger spring races.

"He's still got a way to go to get into the better grades of races," Williams said.

"He'll be going through the handicap route towards hopefully a Caulfield Cup, or something like that.

"Like all owners at this time of year we are dreaming of those big races at Caulfield, Moonee Valley and Flemington."

The Williams team were also represented by another Irish import Foundry ($14) which finished eighth in a run that pleased Williams.

Lane has been riding in sparkling form since his return from Hong Kong last month and Williams praised his performance in guiding The United States to victory.

He said the young jockey would be vying for spring rides on the Williams team of horses.

"The ride clearly won the race," Williams said.

"We're very keen to have jockeys riding in form and he's getting plenty of rides and having plenty of luck and you can see the horses running for him.