JOAN'S JOKER (1) is a eight-start maiden who could only manage to finish sixth after being in the firing line on the bend at his latest appearance over 2100m in the G3 Manawatu Classic at Trentham. Likely to be in the finish in this suitable assignment. MERKEL (13) finished out of the money on debut two starts back then she settled well back and was beaten 3 lengths when sixth in a 1200m contest at Trentham three-and-a-half weeks ago. Perfectly placed and is sure to play a major role. FULL OF COURAGE (2) was out of the money two runs back then again missed the frame last start when he was never in contention over 1600m at Pukekohe, beaten 0.8 lengths into fourth. Has the ability to figure prominently. GOLDEN LINING (7) missed the placings two runs back then improved last start but found a couple better over 2050m at Tauherenikau, beaten 3.5 lengths. Likely improver so plenty to like about her chances.