First appearances left trainer Andrew Noblet a little disappointed in General Custer's recent barrier trial but further analysis buoyed his spirits.

General Custer finished fourth to the Nikki Burke-trained Toothless in an 800m trial at Cranbourne on May 26 but the other times of the day convinced the trainer his charge had performed well enough to head to the races.

"When they first trialled, I thought he only went fair but when the times came out for the whole day, he probably trialled well," Noblet said.

"They flew along in that trial and the winner certainly looks pretty fast."

General Custer will get a chance to show the hit-out was better than it looked when he makes his debut in Wednesday's Equiano-King of Speed Handicap (900m) for two-year-olds at Sandown.

The Mastercraftsman colt trialled without racing for Mick Price before being moved to Noblet's stable earlier this year.

Noblet said he expected General Custer had the natural talent to finish among the placegetters in his debut assignment but would benefit from another spell.

"I'd think we'd see the best of him next time around over a bit further," Noblet said.

"He'll have one or two runs and I'll tip him out to let him mature some more but he's a nice type of horse."

Noblet has already sent dual Flemington winner By The Grace to the spelling paddock for a short rest before he begins his preparations for a spring campaign.

By The Grace scored consecutive wins at Flemington on May 10 and 24 to show Noblet he could be an effective performer in open company.

"We're not going to aim too high with him but there are some nice races for him in the spring," Noblet said.

Noblet said the rising four-year-old would spell for four weeks before beginning his preparation with a fortnight on a water walker.