POISON NOIR (4) was resuming from a spell of four months last start when a solid third over this course and distance. Worth following up. RIKEA SHIRANUI (1) was responsible for a solid effort last time out when second at this track over 1200m, beaten half a length. Should be at his peak now. Yet to break through this time in but hasn't been far away, with two placings to his name. Expected to be in the finish. SMILE KEI (8) gave a bold display over this course and distance when resuming last start, racing on the speed and boxing on well to finish third and beaten 1.1 lengths. Likely improver with winning claims. TAKANO DREAM (9) ran a better race last start, finishing 1.75 lengths away in sixth over 1400m at this track. Likely improver with strong top-three prospects.