MONACO AWARD (4) was below his best last time, finishing seventh and beaten 7 lengths over 2720m at Werribee. Beautifully placed and is sure to take plenty of stopping. KIRK (7) stepped up to the mile for the first time last start at Corowa and after looking a winning chance halfway down the straight he never went on with it. Nice weight drop for this. Looks a major player this time. ASTERN TORCH (2) was too good for a maiden field last start over 1600m at Wagga, scoring by 2.25 lengths. Pierre Boudvillain was in the saddle on that occasion and retains the mount. Tougher task this time but expected to be competitive again. INARTICULATE (16) was never in contention last time over 1500m at Bendigo when he finished sixth, beaten 4.5 lengths. Finds a suitable assignment this time and can improve.