OVERVIEW: Terrific race with several runners possessing metropolitan-quality form. ALWAYS BE BLAKEY (5) was back to his best in winning last time at Melton, thanks to an exceptional drive from Herbertson, where he was able to lead and win. Furthermore, he looked a different horse racing on the pegs. He has the early speed to potentially do the same again here, and if he backs that performance up, he will be hard to beat.

SWEET IDEAL (8) will be the beneficiary if the front line decides to overcook things, as she’s a fast mare with a very good turn of foot. She’s had a freshen-up since her win at Menangle, where she was way too good for her rivals when everything worked out perfectly. She’s classy and commands respect. ULTIMATE VINNIE (7) won’t know himself in this class, having consistently raced in FFA company. His most recent try at this level was two starts back, where he ran a good second. He’s a real threat, although the draw is tricky. ROADMASTER (6) is first-up in eight months, but he’s a very smart 6yo who has often raced against A-Grade opposition. He’s had two good trials leading into this, and whilst fitness is to come, he must be kept safe. The remaining unmentioned runners have claims, especially BOULEVARD BART (2), who is a progressive 4yo but takes on different gravy here.