AL MAXIMUS (4) is close to breaking through, last start finishing just a long neck away in third over 1880m at this track. Looks well placed this line-up so expect another big run. VALIANT KHAN (8) has progressed nicely in his last couple of runs. Finished third at Launceston two starts back then got the job done by half a length last time out over 1600m at Hobart. Likely to be in the finish again. MATEUS (7) finished third two runs back at Launceston then improved last time out to score by 2.75 lengths over 2150m at Launceston. Finds a suitable race and can make it back-to-back successes. BAYSIDE (3) was in contention on the bend and finished second last time over 1350m at this track, beaten a neck. Will trim down following recent racing. Likely improver with top-three claims again.