OrangeThu, December 28, 2023

ROTHGATE (4) accounted for a maiden field over 6½f at Narromine last start, finishing a nose ahead of the nearest rival. Sparingly raced and has more to offer. Clayton Gallagher was in the saddle on that occasion and retains the ride. Big chance to go back-to-back. SOUTH BULLAWAY (5) was in a different class last time with a dominant all-the-way win by 4.5 lengths at Coonamble over 5½f. Will prove very tough to beat. MIKE (7) turned in a nice effort to score two runs ago at this track. Not as effective last time out when seventh over 7f at Mudgee, beaten 4.5 lengths after being prominent at the turn. Suitably placed so anticipating a better run this time. CUMNOCK (3) continued the good recent form when he finished just 2 lengths away in third last time out over 5½f at Bathurst. Deserves to break through and is not to be discounted.