CranbourneFri, December 29, 2023

VANKUKLA (5) was out of the money two runs back then again missed the frame last start when he settled well back over 6f at Seymour, beaten 3.5 lengths into sixth. Worth noting Beau Mertens goes aboard. Best figures measure up nicely. Sure to run well. GREAT GUST (4) resumed over 6f at this track last start and was too good for his rivals, scoring by a nose. Open to plenty of improvement and must be respected. LEGIONNAIRE (1) hit the frame two starts ago at Sandown-Lakeside but ran below par last time when seventh and beaten 3.5 lengths over 7f at Caulfield after being prominent at the corner. Has the class to take care of this field. MASTERFUL (3) started at 11/10 last time but could only manage fifth, beaten 4 lengths, at Caulfield over 7f. Better than the last run and is a top-three hope.