The Michael Kent-trained Miss Steele stamped herself as a potential stakes horse after pouncing on her rivals to win at Moonee Valley on Saturday.

Ridden by Brad Rawiller, the three-year-old grey sat near back of the field from a wide gate in the City Jeep Handicap (1200m).

But once she balanced up in the straight, Miss Steele ($4.80) quickly gathered up the leaders to beat Longchamp Belle ($9) by a 1-1/4 lengths with the Astro Miss ($10) finishing a nose away third after making the running.

Kent said there were excuses for Miss Steele's recent midfield placing at Flemington because her breathing wasn't right.

"The pace was good today, she dropped back, had a nice run and that's what she can do when things work out for her," Kent said.

Kent said he would aim Miss Steele for a stakes race over the autumn.

"We'll probably give her another run (and then) maybe a freshen-up before the autumn and hope she can get some black-type races," Kent said.

Rawiller said the race worked out perfectly for Miss Steele and he was able to make his move when he needed to.

"We got out when we needed to and it was a nice win," he said.