As impressive as Meladys Monet was last week in winning his 2017 debut, he was even better tonight (Friday, March 17) in winning his second straight top-level trot at The Meadowlands.

The millionaire, trained by Kevin McDermott, left from post position six to make the lead before the opening quarter with Brett Miller at the lines before yielding the lead to Rose Run Parker, half of a Ron Burke-trained entry. Meladys Monet, the 1-2 favourite, powerfully moved out of the pocket after three-quarters in 1:25. He went right by a faltering Rose Run Parker and, with a :27.3 final quarter, had plenty left to hold off the closing Opulent Yankee and Crosbys Clam Bake to win in 1:52.4.

"Brett Miller said he was vicious tonight," said McDermott. "He has been absolutely awesome two weeks in a row in cold weather. The plan is to race him at The Meadowlands as long as there is a race that fills. He is as good now as he's ever been, but I may take the hopples off him down the road."

Stakes winner Appomattox won his second straight race for trainer Lucas Wallin, who was pressed into driving duty when Corey Callahan booked off the remainder of his drives after taking ill following the fifth race. Wallin steered Appomattox to a win in 1:54.3 for his second career training victory.

Brett Miller won the first race of the night and the last race with a trip to drive in the Blue Chip Matchmaker at Yonkers Raceway in between. Andy Miller won two races as well.

Total handle on the 11-race card was $2,427,559.

Racing resumes Saturday with a 12-race card. Post time is 7:15 p.m.

(With files from Meadowlands Racetrack)