Gosford

Drops sharply out of BM72 grade after a sound Newcastle fifth over 1900m, beaten a length and a half by Sumac at generous odds after being bumped early and racing wide through the middle stages. He was fitter for that second-up run after fading over 1500m first-up, and he should race handy from barrier five. Third-up, he looks a major winning chance.

Closed to fourth in a Mdn at Hawkesbury, beaten just under a length by My Cartouche despite racing keenly and being checked at the 200m, so the run has more substance than the market expected. His Goulburn fourth prior on soft ground was also sound after racing keenly throughout. The 2030m is new, but he has a live winning chance.

Rises from a country Canberra run to stronger company, but that fifth behind Pure Melody was better than it reads after she was checked late and beaten just under two lengths. She had been a well-supported favourite when second by a neck to Star Turn Dancer the start prior, and her four placings from five starts at this distance are a key asset. Drawn low and expected to go close.

Resumed with a distant fifth in a Mdn at Muswellbrook, beaten just over nine lengths by Imelda after covering ground and only battling late. The prior Happy Valley run in RST60-40 grade was also unplaced despite market respect, and he remains winless from eleven starts. Improver from the better draw.

Found wanting late when last of six at Kembla Grange over 1600m, beaten three and a half lengths by Cap D'Ail, and now goes to 2030m for the first time. His Newcastle fourth prior had more merit after an awkward start and a held-up run, while Andrew Calder has a useful record on him. Place claims look realistic.

Finished last at Canberra behind Pure Melody, beaten just over nine lengths at long odds, and the stewards' note of racing keenly does not provide enough of an excuse. He had also been last in a Mdn at Kembla Grange when unwanted in betting. Hard to recommend even with the blinkers going on.