OVERVIEW: VAN NOSTRAND (3) looks well placed for a first-up victory here, possessing good gate speed to look the likely leader over the mile. I really liked his trial into this at Shepparton where he led easily and held off some in-form trotters. A nice form line is going back to his last start in December in the Vicbred Homegrown series where he was going to win, only to lock wheels at a vital stage. Despite needing fitness, he ticks a lot of boxes here.

MINNIE MIA (5) was the rival that locked wheels in that race after sitting parked. She’s resumed well this campaign, including a win two runs back when able to lead all the way, winning by a space. She raced in much better class last time and this looks suitable. JUST ME AND YOU (8) when she isn’t knocking up positive form, it’s often due to her manners and getting it wrong at the start, so she’s a watch from that perspective. James Herbertson has his first steer, and she commands respect despite giving away a map advantage. MAJESTIC YANKEE (6) showed plenty at the trials and was well supported on debut, only to gallop away. She was freshened and resumed with a big win last time out when able to lead. This is a different challenge for her, but she warrants consideration.