The winning combination of Patrick Moloney and Post D'France continued at Flemington with the apprentice jockey making it five wins from six rides after victory in the Secondbite Plate.

After wining a city and two provincial races mid-year on Post D'France, Moloney was back on the five-year-old gelding in October, guiding him to a win at Cranbourne before suspension forced him off the ride at Moonee Valley last start where he lost in the final stride.

Moloney rode a patient race on Saturday after a fast tempo set by early leader Spacecraft and was four lengths off the lead at the start of the long Flemington straight when he made his move.

Post D'France ($11) reeled in the leaders, but had to fight off a sustained challenge from Xavi ($11) to win by a half length with favourite Sysmo ($3.70) a fading third.

Trainer Stephen Brown, a former jockey who rode more than 1000 winners over a 35-year period, mostly in Darwin and Adelaide, had no qualms in re-instating Moloney on Post D'France.

"He knows the horse inside out and I was really happy for him to ride it," Brown said.

It was the first win for both jockey and trainer during the spring carnival.

"The track was always going to suit him and Patrick got into a perfect position and did a good job for us."

Moloney said Post D'France found an extra gear when Sysmo had threatened down the straight.

"Once he hits the front he pulls up stumps because he knows he's got the job done," Moloney said.