M O NINER (7) ran below his best last start when beaten 2.25 lengths into sixth from a wide draw over today's course and distance after meeting with market support. Niihara Shuma has won when aboard in the past and gets the ride again. Sure to play a big role. THE CROWN (11) returns from a layoff of six months. Worth noting he filled a minor placing when returning from a spell last time in work over 1400m at this track. Rates highly and should take some beating. NADENADE (5) showed little early dash last start but found the line strongly to get up for third, beaten 3 lengths, over this course and distance. Solid top-three prospects. LUISA (8) is experiencing a long win drought, extended last start when fourth over 1200m at this track. Suitably placed so anticipating a bold performance.