Sat, December 28, 2024

DEFENSOR FORTIS (10) is coming along nicely this prep. Finished sixth when fresh from a lay-off two starts back at this track (Turf) then improved and scored over 6½f at this track (Dirt) two-and-a-half weeks ago, getting home by 2.5 lengths after being prominent at the corner. This looks a sterner test than last time but on his best form he is one of the key runners. SHUT UP MICHAEL (8) finished 2.75 lengths from the winner in fourth last start after being prominent at the bend over 7½f at this track, an improvement on his when resuming sixth at this track the run before. Well placed and there is no reason he cannot find winning ways. INESPERADO (11) was never really a threat when resuming last start over 1m at this track (Turf), finishing 10 lengths from the winner in eighth. Has won four races at this course and distance from nine tries. Should be competitive. COASTAL WATERS (6) scored two runs back then was well in commission last time but could only manage to finish seventh over 1m at this track (Turf) after he had travelled in a rearwards position. Won't find this as tough so he can bounce back.