MoreeFri, November 01, 2024

LORD PROTECTOR (1) closed last campaign with three consecutive minor placings and is back. After a break of five-and-a-half months. One of the leading chances. SPECULA (6) went forward last start over 5½f at Narromine and held on well for second, beaten a nose. Meets a stronger field but she is good enough to figure in the finish. UNRELIABLE CRITIC (3) started at 5/2 last time and ran below expectations, finishing sixth and beaten 6 lengths at Mudgee over 6f. Needs to be at his best to beat this field but he is good enough to play a major role. STAGE FRIGHT (7) finished 11 lengths away in 12th at her last appearance over 5f136yards at Grafton on October 22. Well placed on this occasion and is a likely improver.